site.btaUPDATED NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Sekerinska: Russia Remains Most Direct Long-term Security Threat

During a public lecture at the Central Military Club in Sofia, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Sekerinska, who is visiting Bulgaria, said that Russia remains the most direct and long-term threat to security. She was introduced by the President of the Atlantic Club, Dr. Solomon Passy. The event was attended by Ukrainian Ambassador Olesya Ilashchuk, politicians, and public figures.

Sekerinska said that the goal of NATO member states is to prevent, prepare for, and defend against this threat.

She recalled Russia's attack a few days ago in Ukraine against civilians and civilian infrastructure with 800 drones and said that this is an indication that Putin is not interested in peace.

She recalled NATO's priorities, discussed at the summit in The Hague, to strengthen defence through further investment in defence and production, as well as support for Ukraine.

Sekerinska added that NATO is focused on providing Ukraine with what it needs to defend itself and deter future aggression. NATO allies provide 99% of all military support to Ukraine.

She noted the efforts of US President Donald Trump to end the war in Ukraine. Last month's meeting at the White House between President Trump, President Zelenskyy, the NATO Secretary General, and a number of European leaders was a strong demonstration of unity, but also of determination.  She also thanked Bulgaria for its strong support for Ukraine and the allies for continuing that support, especially in providing key military equipment like air defense systems, armored vehicles, missiles, light weapons, and ammunition.

Even when the guns finally fall silent in Ukraine, the long-term threat from Russia will continue, the NATO Deputy Secretary General pointed out. She noted Russia and China's work in the field of arms production, as well as their contacts with Iran, North Korea, and Belarus.

Regardless of how this war ends, Russia will remain a destabilising force in Europe and the world. That is why NATO must all increase investments and spend more on defence and security, Sekerinska said, welcoming the fact that Bulgaria has committed to and fulfilled its promise of 2% of GDP, made years ago. 

Regarding the strengthening of the defence industry, she pointed out that declarations alone do not deter adversaries, but real capabilities are needed, such as firepower, equipment, and technology. Sekerinska added that by the end of 2025, EU countries will likely be producing 2 million shells per year, which is six times more than at the start of the war in Ukraine. She noted that there is still a long way to go in terms of the production of defence systems such as tanks, missiles, and air defence systems. The NATO Deputy Secretary General pointed out that the Bulgarian defence industry is developing rapidly, with numerous manufacturers of ammunition and small arms.

The challenges are great, but NATO's unity and determination are greater than ever, Sekerinska added.

At the end of the event, Solomon Passy presented the NATO Deputy Secretary General with a special gift, a new design for a plaque featuring the famous car currently located at NATO headquarters, the Bulgarian Trabant, he explained.