site.btaEurope Stands Firmly alongside Ukraine, European Council President Costa Says

Europe stands firmly alongside Ukraine as a true partner, European Council President Antonio Costa said here on Thursday evening. He was welcomed by Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov at the Boyana Residence.

Costa said that the EU’s support has helped Ukraine maintain its sovereignty through more than three years of war. Bulgaria has significantly contributed to this effort, he said, adding that with its military assistance, experience and regional knowledge, this country is vital to the efforts to support Ukraine. 

The European Council President warned that Russia’s aggression extends beyond Ukraine, citing hybrid threats such as cyberattacks, destruction of infrastructure, and attempts to undermine democratic systems within Europe. He stressed the need for the EU to develop tools to counter such threats.

Costa commended Bulgaria’s recent achievements within the EU, noting its accession to the Schengen area and its final steps toward joining the euro area as of January 1, 2026. These are major accomplishments for Bulgarian citizens and businesses, he said.

He said that his visit followed a key meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris, where EU leaders backed security guarantees as a foundation for sustainable and long-term peace in Ukraine. He praised Bulgaria's commitment to increase its defense spending, pointing out that this would boost the competitiveness of the Bulgarian defense industry within the European market.

On EU enlargement in the Western Balkans, Costa emphasized the need for continued progress on integration. 

He said that EU Member States must work together to reach a consensus on the multiannual financial framework and agree on a budget that works for all Europeans, he noted.

Costa thanked Prime Minister Zhelyazkov for his condolences following the recent funicular accident in Lisbon, which resulted in several fatalities.