Sofia protest demands stronger security and clearer state stance
Crowd in central Sofia calls for firmer defence policy and closer cooperation with EU and NATO amid concerns over Ukraine and Black Sea incidents.
Hundreds of people gathered tonight in central Sofia to demand stronger national security measures and a clearer foreign-policy line from Bulgaria's authorities. The protest, organized via social networks, brought together citizens worried about developments on the country's borders and in the wider region.
Demonstrators opened the rally with a hard-edged slogan: "Your 'peace' is capitulation! Your 'diplomacy' is isolation!" — a message repeated on banners and shouted during the march. Organizers said they want authorities to stop ignoring emerging threats.
Calls for firmer defence and closer alliances
Speakers at the demonstration warned that risks stemming from the war in Ukraine and a series of incidents in the Black Sea require a decisive state response. They urged the government to adopt a consistent defence policy and to deepen cooperation with partners in the European Union and NATO.
"How much longer will we pretend not to see what is happening on our doorstep?" the organizers asked, demanding a more transparent public debate on security strategy and quicker political decisions to strengthen Bulgaria's preparedness.
The gathering highlighted popular unease with the current government's approach to regional tensions and its handling of relations with EU and Euro-Atlantic allies. Participants called for concrete steps rather than rhetorical assurances.
Organizers said the protest was peaceful and that future public actions could follow if authorities do not present a clearer plan to address the risks named by demonstrators.
Photo: press material from the event
