“Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine makes the US’ continued close coordination with Bulgaria all the more urgent, particularly given the country’s position along Europe’s Eastern Flank,” stated Kenneth Merten, US ambassador-designate during his confirmation hearing at the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Kenneth Merten commended Bulgaria’s commitment as a member of NATO, and stated that it is hosting a multinational NATO battlegroup that includes US troops.

“If confirmed, I am committed to supporting Bulgaria’s efforts to strengthen energy security, including with the help of US companies’ technology and know-how,” Kenneth Merten said and added he would make efforts to help Bulgaria overcome its energy dependence on Russia.