site.btaArmed Forces Day: Greetings and Statements

Bulgarian politicians and military leaders extended greetings and made statements on St George’s Day, May 6, which was the Day of Valour and of the Bulgarian Armed Forces.

President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Rumen Radev said during the ceremony in Sofia that he believes the Armed Forces will resist any attempts to create division or cause humiliation, will uphold military honor, and will continue to defend Bulgaria’s interests with professionalism and dedication, because the Bulgarian people rely on their military. In these difficult times for the Armed Forces, politicians and self-proclaimed experts are once again trying to create division and have even accused the men and women in uniform, who risk their lives for the country every day, of treason, Radev said. “To the service members: as your Supreme Commander, as an officer and commander from the Bulgarian Army, and as one of you, I am confident that you will not allow any attempt to undermine your unity or dignity. I trust you will uphold your military honour and continue to serve Bulgaria with professionalism and dedication, because the Bulgarian people depend on you. May St. George watch over you and lend strength to your hand,” he added. Radev noted that, on the Day of Valour, due tribute must be paid to all Bulgarians who fight for truth, stand against lies, arbitrariness and the rise of oligarchy, and defend democracy. “In them lies the hope for a fairer, more humane and modern European Bulgaria,” he said.

Radev recalled that “the memory of the Second World War—the most devastating conflict in human history—has dimmed over time, and some try to distort its story. It is an honour that a few surviving veterans stood with us today, so we could salute the bravery of the Bulgarians who helped defeat Hitler’s fascism and remember their sacrifice. Sadly, the horrors of that war did not spare Europe further violence.” He warned that alliance membership “means little without our own defence capabilities,” noting that the armed forces are “finally a priority in State finances,” yet face new challenges: “We must turn that funding into modern capabilities and full interoperability with our allies.” Doing so, he said, demands “substantial investment, steady modernisation, and constant attention to training and motivation. Professionalism, a clear strategy, consistency and transparency are vital. Government and senior military leaders must keep an open dialogue and respect military expertise—ignoring it always exacts a high price.” Radev added that Bulgaria “has thrived when guided by valour and virtue, when the Army and people stood together.” On St. George’s Day, “the nation thanks its soldiers by celebrating Valour Day and the holiday of the Bulgarian Army.” “History records many victories and some tragic defeats, but never cowardly surrender,” he concluded. “In the hardest moments, the Bulgarian soldier has been the last, selfless defender of the homeland, and the Army remains a symbol of honour, courage, valour and statehood.”

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said in a Facebook post: "Respect to all who gave their lives defending Bulgaria, and gratitude to those who continue to safeguard our homeland today with dignity and resolve! With the efforts of the state, we will continue to build upon the country’s defence capacity, focusing on ensuring national security through modernization of the Armed Forces and enhancing defence capabilities.” He emphasized that, amid a complex security environment, the government is pursuing clear priorities: rearmament, investment in cybersecurity, development of strategic capabilities, and the gradual resolution of long-standing issues, including filling vacant military positions. The Prime Minister also said that Bulgaria will continue to actively participate in joint NATO and EU initiatives and ensure continuity in strategic decisions. "We will keep working toward greater interoperability with our allies, building infrastructure, attracting and retaining skilled professionals, and improving the social status and motivation of service members. Because defending the national interest is not only a duty but a shared responsibility," Zhelyazkov added.

Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov said that all military equipment undergoes testing, and any technical problems are military-technical in nature, not political. He was answering a reporter’s question about the hardware issue with Bulgaria’s first F-16 Block 70 fighter jet during the ceremony marking Bulgarian Armed Forces Day. "We are expecting the replacement device for the F-16 to be sent to us. The acquisition process will continue next week. After that, we will complete the testing and begin the logistical transport of this aircraft from the United States, followed by the next one," Zapryanov explained. The minister added that he approaches today’s celebration with optimism, as it marks a constructive new phase for Bulgaria’s Armed Forces. When asked how President Rumen Radev had learned about the aircraft issue, given that the information is classified, Zapryanov said that the matter would be reviewed by the appropriate specialized institutions. "For us, it was purely technical information," he emphasized.

Earlier in May, Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov, Air Force Commander Major General Nikolay Rusev, and Defence Chief Admiral Emil Eftimov visited Graf Ignatievo Air Base to address concerns about a hardware issue found after the arrival of Bulgaria’s first F-16 Block 70. President Rumen Radev and GERB leader Boyko Borissov had exchanged accusations, Borissov claiming the head of the Air Force should be fired if Bulgaria had paid USD 100 million for a faulty jet, and Radev countering that the armed forces were underfunded. Zapryanov warned that routine technical issues are being politicized and reiterated that the Army’s depoliticized status must be safeguarded.

The Chief of Defence, Admiral Emil Eftimov, said in a national television appearance that the F-16 aircraft has a minor technical issue that will be resolved within days. "The aircraft has a small technical issue that does not warrant such extensive discussion. It will be fixed in a few days. The main point is that the modernization of the Bulgarian army is underway," Eftimov said. He noted that technical issues can also impact other equipment, which is normal. Regarding accusations of espionage, he stated these are unfounded claims. "There has been no data breach. I will address this again during blitz Question Time on Wednesday," Eftimov said, and referenced to the certification of the security systems at the Graf Ignatievo air base. Eftimov thanked all military and civilian personnel for their responsibility and professionalism.

Major General Prof. Ventsislav Mutafchiyski, who heads the Military Medical Academy (MMA) in Sofia, said that MMA is not merely a healthcare facility – it is an institution built on professionalism, honour, and unwavering service to society. "I can proudly say that the medics of the MMA are a symbol of modern heroism – not only in our hospitals but also in international missions abroad, where they have demonstrated their competence, compassion, and courage. In environments of danger and uncertainty, they do not just treat – they save lives, restore health, instil faith, and bring hope," Gen. Mutafchiyski emphasized. According to him, May 6 is a day to honour the dignified service of military personnel and of all those who carry out their duty with dedication – both on the battlefield and in the daily fight for human life. "Happy St. George’s Day, dear colleagues! You are the heart of the Academy. Thank you for every single day in which you protect life with care and humanity. You are the force that drives the MMA forward. I wish health and happiness to you and your families," Mutafchiyski said.

Democracy, Rights and Freedoms floor leader Dzhevdet Chakarov wrote on Facebook that St George's Day and Hidirellez are holidays that "remind us how strong we can be when we are united". "This is at the core of our cause – freedom, peace, and unity in diversity," he noted. Chakarov added that May 6 also marks the holiday of Bulgarian servicemen. "With gratitude, we bow our heads to those who have defended and continue to defend our homeland with dignity and self-sacrifice," he said.

MRF-New Beginning Leader Delyan Peevski said in a press release from the party: “May St. George the Victorious protect and give strength to all dedicated to the cause of security and integrity of Bulgaria.” Peevski said that May 6 is one of the most important holidays. It is also known as St. George’s Day, Hidirellez, and Ederlezi—celebrations observed by people of all ethnicities and religions. "This day marks renewal, the awakening of nature, and new beginnings," he added. “Let the desire for a new beginning inspire every person, every family, and every home, so that together we can overcome challenges and build a European, stable, and secure Bulgaria,” Peevski said. “MRF – New Beginning will be the force that ensures care for people and better lives,” Peevski added, concluding with, “The best is yet to come.”

Vazrazhdane party leader Kostadin Kostadinov said in a statement: "I will do everything in my power so that our sons can soon serve Bulgaria and only Bulgaria, just like us, their fathers! Because when the bond between the people and the army is lost, the state disappears, sooner or later." Kostadinov stressed that he is proud to be part of the reserve of the Bulgarian Armed Forces and that he had the honour to serve under the battle flags of the army back when, in his words, "it was only Bulgarian, not NATO’s, as it is now".

There Is Such a People (TISP) party leader Slavi Trifonov congratulated all members of the Bulgarian Armed Forces on the occasion of May 6 – Day of Valour and Bulgarian Armed Forces Day. "Happy holiday to all Bulgarians who bear the heavy responsibility of being part of the Bulgarian Army. And happy holiday to all Bulgarians who carry the great name of Saint George the Victory-Bearer," Trifonov wrote on Facebook.