Radev after the meeting with Tusk: We will count on Poland for support regarding the F-16s

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev and his Polish counterpart Donald Tusk discussed security, defence, transport connectivity, the protection of the EU’s external borders and the future distribution of European funds during their meeting in Poland. The two sides outlined opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation, including in the maintenance of Bulgaria’s MiG-29 fighter jets and the future operation of F-16 aircraft.

Radev thanked Warsaw for its support in keeping Bulgaria’s MiG-29s operational and said another order for engine repairs is forthcoming. He also said Bulgaria would rely on Poland for the future maintenance of its F-16 aircraft, as well as for possible training, pointing to the active role of the Polish defence industry in supporting the aircraft.

Infrastructure was another key topic of the talks. Radev described Poland as an example of successful use of European funding and invited Polish companies to participate in infrastructure projects in Bulgaria, with a particular focus on improving North-South connectivity.

The two PMs also discussed the security of the EU’s external borders and the need for greater European solidarity, as well as the next EU multiannual financial framework. Radev said Bulgaria and Poland support strong cohesion and agricultural policies, while Tusk stressed the importance of Central and Eastern European countries coordinating their positions and defending their common interests within the EU.

The war in Ukraine and the possibility of diplomatic dialogue were also discussed. Rumen Radev called for communication channels to remain open and for every opportunity for dialogue to be used in order to move towards peace. Donald Tusk said he would support an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend a G-20 meeting if it could bring genuine peace closer, but warned that Moscow could interpret such a move as encouragement to continue its policy of aggression. He also stressed that Poland distinguishes between peace and what he described as the capitulation of Ukraine.