Permanent Structured Cooperation

Germany's government is seeking to determine the level of interest in military service among its young people. A new draft law, approved by Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, would require young men to complete a survey about their willingness to serve in the Bundeswehr, the German military.

Defense Minister Nikos Dendias is preparing to present, within the next few days, a twelve-year defense package designed to strengthen and modernize the country's defense capabilities.  

The plan, based on operational needs identified by armed forces staff, is expected to be presented to the Parliamentary Arms Committee by mid-November for approval.  

At the Novo Selo training ground today, Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov affirmed that the recent command and staff exercise showcased the NATO Multinational Battlegroup's preparedness to scale up to brigade level if required for Bulgaria's defense.

Switzerland, after five centuries of neutrality, is contemplating a major shift in its defense policy due to growing threats from Russia, as outlined in a recent report covered by Politico. The report suggests that Switzerland should strengthen its cooperation with the European Union and NATO, which would mark a significant departure from its long-standing stance.

Acting Bulgarian Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov has clarified that the airbase near Graf Ignatievo will not include facilities for storing nuclear weapons. This information was provided in response to a query from MP Ivan Petkov of the Bulgarian Socialist Party.

According to Acting Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov, the Kremlin aims to directly influence the upcoming elections in June. Zapryanov made this statement at the opening of the spring session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, which runs from today until May 27. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is expected to attend the Assembly meeting.

In a recent interview with bTV, Defense Chief Emil Eftimov addressed concerns about the presence of anti-NATO sentiments within the Bulgarian military, stating unequivocally, "I wouldn't say that there are anti-NATO sentiments in the army."

In response to ongoing staffing challenges within the Bulgarian army, the caretaker government is exploring alternative solutions, with military training for security personnel emerging as a potential strategy.

Deputy Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov revealed the plans for the thorough modernisation of the Bulgarian Armed Forces, estimating a budget exceeding BGN 37 billion. Speaking at a conference commemorating the 20th anniversary of Bulgaria's NATO membership, held at Sofia's Central Military Club, Zapryanov emphasized the critical need for investment in defence capabilities.

NICOSIA - Serbian Armed Forces (SAF) Chief of General Staff Gen Milan Mojsilovic began a three-day visit to Cyprus on Tuesday with discussions about bilateral military cooperation and opportunities for its advancement as well as contemporary regional and global security challenges.