Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov has clarified that Bulgaria did not cover any fuel expenses for American military aircraft stationed at Sofia’s Vasil Levski Airport between February and June 2026, stating that the costs were fully borne by the United States.
The issue was raised in parliament by Vazrazhdane MP Ivelin Parvanov, who asked who financed the fuel for U.S. transport and tanker aircraft operating from the Bulgarian capital during that period.
In his response, Stoyanov was brief and direct, confirming that Bulgaria had no financial responsibility for the fuel used during the exercises. “In response to your question who pays for the fuel for the flights of American military planes taking off from Sofia Airport for the period February - June 2026, I will answer extremely briefly. The United States,” he said.
He added that this arrangement is standard practice during joint exercises, stressing that the U.S. has consistently covered its own operational fuel costs. “The United States of America has always paid for its fuel during the exercises,” the defense minister stated.
The clarification comes amid parliamentary scrutiny over the logistical and financial aspects of foreign military activity on Bulgarian territory, particularly during multinational training operations involving allied forces.
