site.btaPresident Iotova Calls for Better Communication after US Military Aircraft Appear at Sofia Airport

Bulgaria’s presidential institution has received formal notification from the Ministry of Defence that US Air Force aircraft currently stationed at Sofia Airport are present to support a planned military exercise, President Iliana Iotova said on Friday. She was speaking in a wide-ranging interview on bTV Friday morning.

She explained that the letter, received on Thursday, states that the aircraft deployed at Vasil Levski Airport are part of upcoming training activities, with Bulgarian authorities having been asked only to provide space. The aircraft and accompanying personnel are supporting NATO’s enhanced vigilance measures, according to information previously released by the Defence Ministry.

Iotova, however, voiced concern over what she described as poor communication between state institutions. She said it was inappropriate for the presidency to be informed through what she called a “cursory letter,” adding that there are established councils and bodies where such matters should be discussed. She stressed that the lack of coordination had left the media speculating about developments that affect national security.

Iotova acknowledged that some aspects of defence-related activity necessarily involve sensitive information, but argued that greater transparency is needed to reassure the public. She said citizens have the right to clear and timely explanations when military activity is visible and raises public concern.

Commenting more broadly on international developments, Iotova said signals coming from Geneva regarding negotiations in the Middle East were “deeply worrying,” noting that talks were proving extremely difficult and that no agreement had been reached. She expressed hope that the situation would not escalate into a new conflict.

Her remarks came amid reports that the United States is strengthening its military presence in the Middle East, heightening tensions over a potential escalation involving Iran. 

Asked whether she would convene Bulgaria’s Consultative Council on National Security in light of the regional tensions, Iotova said she would first propose that the caretaker Prime Minister convene the Security Council with the Council of Ministers. If the outcome were unsatisfactory, she said, she would then consider calling the Consultative Council on National Security.

The Consultative Council on National Security is an advisory body chaired by the President, tasked with discussing national security policy, safeguarding civil peace and public order, and proposing measures in response to threats to Bulgaria’s security.