The arrival of the first two of an expected eight US Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft at Bezmer Air Base marks the start of a temporary deployment that has fueled weeks of political debate, public protests, and diplomatic exchanges in Bulgaria. The mission, scheduled to run until October 1, 2026, is intended to provide logistical support for US operations in the Middle East and includes the deployment of up to 250 American military personnel equipped with personal weapons and ammunition.
The deployment follows an official request from the United States under the 2006 Defense Cooperation Agreement between the two countries. Because the mission extends beyond routine NATO exercises, the Bulgarian government sought parliamentary approval. On July 22, lawmakers authorized the deployment with 135 votes in favor from the Progressive Bulgaria and DPS parliamentary groups, while 13 MPs voted against, including 12 from Revival and one from Progressive Bulgaria. Two other Progressive Bulgaria lawmakers abstained. The three members of the ruling party who broke with their parliamentary group were all elected from Yambol Region. MPs from GERB, PP, and Democratic Bulgaria took part in the debate but did not vote.
