The BSP threatened again to leave the ruling coalition if a decision is made to send military aid to Ukraine. In a statement on behalf of the parliamentary group, Christian Vigenin was adamant on this issue.
„Fifty days ago, a war broke out very close to us. It is not a small regional conflict, but a war between two of Europe’s largest states, with two of Europe’s largest armies. Russia’s war in Ukraine has led to an unprecedented response at various levels, from financial support for Ukraine and humanitarian aid to the needy, severe economic sanctions against Russia, significant military aid – both financial and direct arms supplies to the Ukrainian army.This is an expression of solidarity with the country that is the target of a military attack.“, he said.
The MP added that in this situation Bulgaria had to make important decisions – both as part of the joint actions of the EU and NATO, the alliances in which it is a member, and individual actions related to our capabilities and expectations of Bulgarian society.
In the face of real security threats – not so much military as related to the risk of energy supplies, difficulties for many sectors of the economy, possible food crisis, increased refugee flows and others, the government, according to the socialists, is taking steps to maintain domestic stability and international prestige of the country.
„However, under conditions of war and growing threats, there are political formations that, instead of helping to consolidate society, do the exact opposite – create tension, spread lies, dig dividing lines. It is too early to say whether this makes them more popular, but it is indisputable that Bulgaria is becoming more vulnerable and weaker. The Bulgarian Socialist Party has a clear and consistent policy regarding war and peace not since yesterday. Our long history is often considered a problem that weighs on us in elections, but at a time like today, it gives stability to our positions and actions.„, Vigenin said. He added:
“We appeal to everyone to take a stately approach to the challenges before us – both the ruling party and the opposition. Staring at the issue of military aid to Ukraine is inexplicable. On this issue, I want to say very clearly: the BSP supports all aspects of aid to Ukraine without the supply of deadly weapons and ammunition. This is a red line and we are grateful to the partners for complying with this sensible and responsible position so far. We do it not only for us, not so much because of our beliefs, but because we believe that it is in Bulgaria’s interest to approach cautiously and moderately. It is in Bulgaria’s interest that the government does not go against the opinion of the vast majority of Bulgarian citizens, does not create unnecessary worries and tensions. If this position is revised, we are ready to revise our participation in government.“
He also commented on the fact that the European Commission (EC) has decided to provide military and humanitarian aid through the European Peace Facility:
„Only part of the funds is for military supplies, the rest is humanitarian aid. Bulgaria does not pay for weapons for Ukraine! The Minister of Foreign Affairs will inform us in detail on Friday. And I want to declare once again – not a single bullet came out of Bulgaria for Ukraine, neither as a paid delivery of weapons, nor as humanitarian aid.„
The BSP expected the government to offer a comprehensive package of assistance to Ukraine and the civilian population, which would be located in such a way that it would be bearable and useful for us. The cabinet should also take an active part in the discussions on the future reconstruction of the country, focusing on the regions with a predominant population of ethnic Bulgarians – Zaporozhye, Bolgrad and Odessa region as a whole.
„We want the Bulgarian government to present a more comprehensive plan of measures for those fleeing the war who arrive in Bulgaria. There are still problems in some places with the reception – for example Durankulak. So far, we are doing well, but the flow could increase significantly if the war reaches Odessa, which is a very likely development. There are already 80,000 in Bulgaria, which is an unprecedented number and will grow. We should not close our eyes to the fact that tension is already being created. That inevitably, after a wave of empathy, fatigue will ensue. We welcome the efforts of the responsible ministers, but the challenges are piling up. There are over 25,000 children – we must look for opportunities to continue their education. It is not necessary for everyone to enter Bulgarian schools at this stage – the Ukrainian side organizes online education, we must help students to follow the Ukrainian curriculum.“, said the MP from the left.
The most important thing, he said, was to provide for sanctions and counter-sanctions. The effects on the Bulgarian economy would be significant, especially if the import of energy resources is banned, supply chains will be disrupted, and there will be a need to reorient markets, imports and exports. Inevitably, inflation will rise, GDP growth will be significantly lower than expected, and social problems will deepen.
„We want a plan to limit these effects, the citizens want to see that the government is serious, to feel stability and predictability in the actions of the government and the National Assembly. The forthcoming budget update is a way to put intentions into numbers. We have given part of our proposal, but everything must be covered in a common financially secure plan.“, the socialists were adamant.
