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Bulgaria has signaled its readiness to open its airspace for Russian President Vladimir Putin should he travel to Budapest for a potential summit with U.S. President Donald Trump. The announcement was made by Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev on Monday during the E.U. Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg.
Minister Georgiev emphasized that logistical arrangements would only be discussed once a date for the meeting is officially confirmed. “Let the date be announced first and then we can talk about technical details. As far as I know, there is no confirmed date yet,” he stated.
He underscored Bulgaria’s commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving peace in Ukraine. “When efforts are made for peace, it is only logical that all sides contribute to making such a meeting possible,” Georgiev explained. On the question of granting an air corridor to Putin, he added, “And how else could the meeting take place if one of the participants cannot get there?”
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s possible trip to Budapest for a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump presents significant diplomatic and logistical challenges. Due to an outstanding arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, Putin cannot freely enter E.U. or NATO airspace, requiring alternative routes and special air corridor arrangements.
Hungary has been selected as the likely host, in part because of Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s strong ties with both leaders and Budapest’s unique position within the E.U.
Bulgaria will continue to support the European Union’s 19th sanctions package against Russia, expected to be adopted later this week. Georgiev highlighted Sofia’s active role in supporting Ukraine, including participation in the Safe Skies initiative, the Black Sea security infrastructure, and the regional drone wall. He also noted cooperation with Romania and Türkiye to monitor Russian oil tanker activity in the Black Sea.
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