Bulgaria Authorizes Foreign Military Passage Through Airspace

The Bulgarian Parliament has been notified by Acting Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov of orders authorizing the passage of allied and foreign armed forces through Bulgarian airspace and territory. The announcement was made by National Assembly Speaker Raya Nazaryan during a plenary hall session on March 4, 2026.

Legal Framework and Oversight

The orders are issued in accordance with the Law on the Passage through and Stay on the Territory of the Republic of Bulgaria of Allied and Foreign Armed Forces (LPPTRBSChVS), which grants the Minister of Defense the authority to approve such passage and residence. Following the issuance of these orders, the law mandates notification to the National Assembly, with detailed information provided to the Defense Committee for oversight and transparency. This process aims to ensure the regulated presence of foreign military forces aligns with Bulgaria’s national interests.

Context of Recent Developments

While such notifications are routine, public sensitivity is heightened due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the presence of U.S. Aircraft, described as “flying tanks,” at Sofia’s civil airport. These aircraft have been authorized to remain at the airport until May 31st. Defense officials have clarified that these planes are not participating in military operations and are stationed at Sofia’s “Vasil Levski” airport due to a lack of parking space at the Vrazhdebna base.

Assurances Regarding Regional Security

Zapryanov has stated that Bulgaria is not involved in operations against Tehran and that there is no direct threat to the country. NATO has also affirmed its non-involvement in the conflict with Iran.

Recent Parliamentary Scrutiny

Just days prior, on February 27, 2026, six caretaker ministers, including Atanas Zapryanov, underwent their first parliamentary scrutiny. Zapryanov, along with ministers of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Health, Environment and Water, and Youth and Sports, answered questions from Members of Parliament. Fakti.bg reports that the Minister of Finance, Georgi Klisurski, provided information on the country’s foreign debt, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, addressed fines imposed on Bulgarian citizens crossing the Turkish border.

National Day Observances

Recent national celebrations, including Bulgaria’s National Day marked by a ceremonial military tattoo in Sofia on March 3, 2026, saw the attendance of key figures such as Vice President Iliana Iotova, National Assembly Speaker Raya Nazaryan, caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gurov, and caretaker Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov. Bulgarian Telegraph Agency reported on the event, highlighting the display of revered battle flags and a tribute to those who died for Bulgaria’s freedom.