Protesters Rally in Germany, Bulgaria against Weapons Deliveries to Ukraine (+Video)
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Demonstrators gathered in Dusseldorf and Sofia over the weekend to protest against the delivery of weapons to Ukraine.
In Dusseldorf, dozens of people marched through the streets, displaying flags and signs with messages such as 'Peace in Ukraine and stop the war with Russia. Negotiate now' and 'End the economic war with Russia.'
One protester emphasized their opposition to weapon deliveries, stating, "We are fighting in a union, and we think it is important to support a position against war." Another demonstrator expressed concerns about Germany's increasing militarization, urging more people to voice their disagreement, Ruptly reported.
Germany had announced a military aid package of €2.7 billion ($2.9 billion) to Ukraine in mid-May, including tanks, armored vehicles, reconnaissance drones, and anti-aircraft systems. The aid package was the largest since the start of the military offensive.
Meanwhile, in Sofia, thousands of protesters marched against the Bulgarian government's military assistance to Ukraine. Activists called for a referendum on peace and sovereignty, asserting that the Bulgarian people should have a say before being involved in any war.
Demonstrators held placards reading 'NATO-out' and 'Resignation,' and some even threw plastic toy weapons. Concerns were raised about the broad concept of military aid, with claims that sending tanks to Ukraine would require trained specialists. Former general Stefan Stefanov expressed apprehension about what might follow the tanks.
Bulgaria's National Assembly has provided "military and technical assistance" to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, with estimates suggesting a significant amount of weaponry has been sent.
The recent formation of a government by pro-EU and pro-NATO parties has sparked additional debates regarding foreign interests in the country.
The protests in both Germany and Bulgaria highlight the ongoing controversy surrounding weapons deliveries and the involvement of various nations in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.