US to Deploy Troops from Bulgaria Without Asking
24 April 2006, Monday.
http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=62479The US will soon be able to deploy troops to other countries from Bulgaria's bases without asking the country's permission, the Washington Times reported.
This matter is sensitive for many Bulgarians, the newspaper writes in an article titled "Bulgaria Oks 3 bases for US troops". The report explains that the US needed to be able to use their soldiers where they needed them, without tying them down. This is why the States' ability to freely deploy troops without permission is stipulated in the final draft of the agreement for the bases.
Another controversial point in the negotiations was the jurisdiction over crimes committed by US soldiers on Bulgarian territory. In the end it was decided that he Balkan country would keep the right to apply its legislation in such cases. However, in accordance with
NATO regulations, the US wold have the right of first jurisdiction. This means that the soldiers would first be tried in the States.
By signing the agreement Bulgaria will allow the deployment of another country's troops on its territory for the first time in its 1325-year-long history. US Secretary of Stat Condoleeza Rice will sign the deal during her first official visit to Bulgaria on April 27.
related:
Condoleeza Rice in Sofia April 27, Signs US Bases Deal
http://www.southeasteurope.org/subpage.php?sub_site=2&id=16755&head=hlBulgaria clears way for U.S. deployments
http://www.airforcetimes.com/story.php?f=1-292925-1719409.php