Democratic Bulgaria (DB) MPs said at a briefing in parliament that the group is tabling a draft decision to set up an inter-agency unit under the government's Security Council. The unit would study the economic risks of the insecurity in the Black Sea.

It would look at the risks for citizens and industry and track goods that have become too costly to import and export. It would also create compensation schemes where needed, so that the Bulgarian economy is not badly hit.

Yordan Yordanov called on the Council of Ministers to manage the crisis properly. He warned that the insecurity in the Black Sea, caused by Russia's war against Ukraine and covering a huge area, brings risks for the country's economy and industry.

The group also proposes a shield in the Black Sea, built through cooperation between Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey within NATO. Ivaylo Mirchev rejected moratoriums, memorandums and similar ideas as a solution.

Mirchev explained that the request to the Alliance includes stronger radar surveillance, extra forces on the coasts of the three countries, fighter jets and helicopters to fight drones.

Mirchev believes Putin's aim in escalating the war, which Russia started against Ukraine in February 2022, is to close the Black Sea to commercial shipping. He added that Russia has been losing territory it seized in Ukraine in recent weeks.

Bozhidar Bozhanov said the group is also tabling a decision for compensation of 20 euro cents when fuel prices are high. He proposed that the money come from Lukoil's windfall profits and from extra VAT revenue.

"It is clear who is behind the drone attacks, just as it is clear who is behind the Starlink sabotage," Bozhanov said. In his view, the government should lead the defence of the Black Sea coast, not ask for moratoriums and memorandums on things that are already banned.

"Bulgaria should get out of the corner it has boxed itself into with this government and lead the process," he added.

DB will push for a full package of compensation and expects to hear how big the budget deficit will be. Bozhanov said it was not announced yesterday. Asked about the minimum wage, he said the group had insisted that parliament set out a clear formula, but this was not done and the government was given a blank cheque.

Today the group will talk with the leadership of parliament about sending the proposal to the transport committee, which meets at 2:30pm.

The aim is to set up the unit by decision as early as this plenary week.