The United States requested permission to keep its military aircraft stationed at Vasil Levski Airport in Sofia until July 30, but the Bulgarian government ultimately approved an extension only until June 30, Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov told lawmakers during parliamentary oversight proceedings.
According to Stoyanov, the request was reviewed by the Bulgarian authorities before a decision was made to grant a shorter extension. The additional month was intended to give the American side enough time to organize the relocation of the aircraft and associated personnel.
“The government provided this one-month period to our allies from the United States so they could plan the movement of the aircraft,” Stoyanov explained. He added that discussions had already taken place with Washington regarding possible alternatives, including the transfer of the aircraft to military air bases located in Bulgaria.
The current arrangement stems from a decision adopted by the Council of Ministers on May 29, which extended the authorized stay of up to 15 U.S. military aircraft, along with support personnel and equipment, on Bulgarian territory through June 30, 2026.
The aircraft were initially deployed at Sofia Airport earlier this year. On February 19, the Ministry of Defense announced their arrival, stating that the deployment was connected to training activities supporting NATO’s enhanced vigilance measures.
