Kiril Petkov, the Prime Minister of Bulgaria, launched a campaign encouraging citizens in the country to donate a month's worth of their salaries to aid the Ukrainian government.
"I call on every Bulgarian citizen who really wants to help Ukraine to donate a salary like me. Words are easy, deeds are difficult, it's time for Facebook posts to become funds for Ukraine."
The campaign was created after disagreement in the quadruple ruling coalition over whether weapons should be sent to Ukraine from Bulgaria. The only party opposing the move is the socialist party. Kornelia Ninova, Party leader and Deputy Prime Minister, even threatened to depart the coalition over the matter.
According to Petkov, sending military aid to Ukraine require social and political unity. The council of the coalition is expected to hold a meeting to discuss the matter further.
Petkov said:
"Military aid is not necessarily in one of two extremes – it's not just shells or helmets. Let's understand the real needs of Ukraine and, as an informed coalition, unite around important concrete needs that we can all stand behind."
He added:
"Until we reach this political consensus, as citizens of Bulgaria who believe that no one in Europe has the right to attack their neighbours and kill civilians, we are free to choose to help Ukraine financially to purchase ammunition."
[Based on reporting by: Euractiv]
COMMENTS