Zelenskyy had a discussion with Bulgarian President Radev about war: If Russia comes here, what will you do then?. VIDEO
In a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his visit to Sofia, Bulgarian leader Rumen Radev called Russia’s war against Ukraine a "conflict" and reiterated that he did not support the supply of Bulgarian weapons to the Ukrainian defence forces, calling for peace talks. Zelenskyy explained that Ukraine is at war and commented on Radev’s dubious position on provision of weapons.
As noted, the Bulgarian president called the declaration signed on 6 July on supporting our country on its way to NATO an important step, but disagreed with the transfer of ammunition, especially from Bulgaria's stockpiles, as he "as president and commander-in-chief has his responsibilities," Censor.NET reports citing ZN.UA.
"I continue to maintain that there is no military solution to this conflict, and the provision of more and more weapons is unlikely to lead to such a solution. It is important to focus on consistent efforts for de-escalation, for a ceasefire and for finding peaceful solutions through diplomatic means," Radev added.
In response, President Zelenskyy thanked the people of Bulgaria for sheltering many of our citizens. He expressed hope that Bulgarians understand that there is a war in our country, not a "conflict". "During a conflict, millions of people do not leave the country, so we know very well that this is not a conflict, but a war," the head of state added.
He also asked whether the Bulgarian leader does not support the supply of shells to the Ukrainian army in order not to weaken his own army, or whether he opposes strengthening Ukraine, as "these are different things".
"If Russia comes here, what you have will not be enough for your army to fight it. Therefore, it is good to give people the opportunity to defend themselves so that the war does not come to you, to the Poles, to the Romanians. War has no distance. God forbid that some tragedy should happen and you should be in my place. And if you don't get help, what would you do then? You would say: "Putin, please take over the Bulgarian territory?" No, you, as a true president, I am sure, will not compromise your independence. It's your right not to support aid to Ukraine. But I would very much like you to understand me correctly," Zelenskyy said.
