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 first two of the eight planned U.S.

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…