Bulgaria Responds to U.S. Visa Policy Over Military Aircraft Stay
Bulgaria has announced that it will allow U.S. military aircraft currently stationed in the country to remain only until the end of June, after Washington failed to take a positive step on visa-free travel for Bulgarian citizens.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev said Sofia could not respond positively to a request for a longer stay of U.S. military aircraft and tanks at Sofia Airport.
Radev stated that he fully understands the complexity of regulatory procedures and the need for time, but added that Bulgaria also has its own priorities and procedures.
As a NATO member, Bulgaria hosts U.S. military aircraft in its capital, Sofia. The current agreement is set to expire at the end of May, while the government is expected to extend the stay until the end of June to give the United States time to reconsider its position.
Earlier this month, Radev reportedly discussed the issue with U.S. President Donald Trump and called for the suspension of the U.S. visa requirement for Bulgarian nationals, but has not yet received a positive response.
