The decision came in a behind-closed-doors session, according to state-affiliated BTA news agency, as cited by the Associated Press.
The approved aid comprises defective surface-to-air missiles designed for the Russian-made S-300 air defense system and small-caliber automatic weapon ammunition previously discarded by the Interior Ministry.
According to the AP, while these missiles are considered irreparable in Bulgaria, Ukraine possesses the necessary facilities either to repair them or to extract valuable spare parts.
Emil Eftimov, the Chief of Defense, addressed concerns regarding Bulgaria's own defense readiness. "We have no intention of providing the full S-300 missile system until we can ascertain a suitable replacement," he remarked, emphasizing that the current aid does not impede Bulgaria’s defensive capabilities.
However, the decision did not come about without criticism, with the move reigniting divisions in the Balkan nation regarding its stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Opposition primarily came from the Socialist Party and the pro-Russia nationalists of the Revival Party, both of which voted against the proposition.
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Source: PAP, Associated Press