As reported by Novinite publication
Bulgaria’s Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov expressed his opinion regarding Russia’s decision to include him on the “Russophobe list.” He emphasized that “condemning Russia’s aggressive war is not Russophobia”. This information was published by Novinite.
“This is Moscow’s business; I don’t know what this list represents. If supporting international law, defending the UN Charter, and condemning aggressive wars are considered Russophobia, then I don’t believe that the 143 countries that voted against Russia at the UN General Assembly are Russophobes.”
– Atanas Zapryanov
Zapryanov also noted that his position reflects “the shared interests upheld by NATO and the European Union”. He stressed the need to “avoid Kremlin provocations” from Bulgaria’s side.
It is worth noting that two former Bulgarian prime ministers, including Zapryanov himself, were included in the list of “recent manifestations of Russophobic rhetoric” published by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This list contains quotes from statements by former Defense Minister Todor Tagarev, Prime Ministers Nikolay Denkov and Dimitar Glavchev, as well as the current Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov.
On July 30, the Italian government also responded to Russia’s decision to add President Sergio Mattarella and several ministers to the “Russophobe list.” They stated that these actions by Moscow are an attempt to divert attention from its responsibility for the war against Ukraine.
“Italy is firmly committed to supporting Ukraine amid the brutal aggressive war launched by Russia over three years ago and continues to provide support to the Ukrainian people.”
– Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy
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