Sofia Secures Spot as Finalist for European Capital of Democracy 2026
Sofia has been named one of the top three cities in the running for the title of European Capital of Democracy 2026
The European Union must heed U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for increased defense spending, according to Kaja Kallas, the EU’s top diplomat. During her speech at the European Defense Agency's annual conference, Kallas emphasized the urgency of investing more in defense, acknowledging Trump’s assertion that the EU does not allocate enough funds for this purpose.
“President Trump is right to say that we don’t spend enough. It’s time to invest,” Kallas said, adding that the United States must remain Europe’s “strongest ally.”
Kallas reiterated the importance of the United States remaining Europe’s strongest ally in the face of growing threats, particularly from Russia. She stressed that while Russian President Vladimir Putin often speaks the language of strength, the EU possesses both the capability and resources to outproduce and outspend Russia.
In her speech, Kallas described herself as a realist regarding Russia, countering claims of being a “Russia hawk.” She noted that the EU had for too long offered Russia alternatives, a stance that must change in light of current geopolitical tensions.
US Vice President JD Vance delivered a critical speech at the Munich Security Conference
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Europe cannot indefinitely rely on the US military presence
The NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels and the Munich Security Conference have drawn significant attention this week, with US President Donald Trump's approach to Ukraine and Russia
The European Parliament has reiterated its refusal to recognize the self-proclaimed authorities of Georgia
A major police operation is underway in Munich after a car plowed into a crowd of demonstrators near the city's central train station
The European Commission has referred Bulgaria, along with Spain, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, and Finland, to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose
Bulgaria's Perperikon: A European Counterpart to Peru's Machu Picchu
Bulgarians Among EU's Least Frequent Vacationers, Struggling with Affordability