As a historian with a focus on World War II, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding Bulgaria's position during the war. World War II was a complex conflict with many shifting alliances and perspectives, and Bulgaria's role was no exception. It's important to understand the geopolitical context of the time to fully appreciate the intricacies of Bulgaria's involvement.

**Bulgaria's Initial Alignment with the Axis Powers**
At the outset of World War II, Bulgaria was not immediately involved in the conflict. However, influenced by a desire to regain lost territories and by the political leanings of its military and monarchy, Bulgaria gravitated towards the Axis Powers. In 1941, Bulgaria signed the Tripartite Pact, which was an agreement between Germany, Italy, and Japan to cooperate in their respective war efforts. By aligning with the Axis, Bulgaria sought to secure its borders and reclaim territories from Greece and Yugoslavia, which it perceived as historically Bulgarian.

**Territorial Gains and Military Cooperation**
Following the invasion of Yugoslavia and Greece by the Axis Powers, Bulgaria was able to annex some territories from both countries. This move was seen as a partial restoration of Bulgaria's pre-World War I borders. Bulgaria also provided military support to the Axis, particularly in the form of logistical assistance and by allowing German troops to pass through its territory.

Internal Opposition and Soviet Pressure
Despite its alignment with the Axis, Bulgaria was not a monolithic entity in its support for the war. There was significant internal opposition to the government's policies, particularly from the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and various political groups. Additionally, as the tide of the war began to turn against the Axis Powers, the Soviet Union, which had a significant interest in the region, began to exert pressure on Bulgaria to change its stance.

The转折点 (Turning Point)
The turning point for Bulgaria's position in World War II came in 1944. As you mentioned, on August 23, 1944, Romania withdrew from the Axis Powers and declared war on Germany. This was a significant event for Bulgaria, as it exposed the vulnerability of the Axis Powers in the region. On August 26, the Bulgarian government announced its neutrality in the German-Soviet conflict and ordered German troops to leave the country. This move was a clear indication that Bulgaria was reconsidering its position in the war.

The Final Stance
After declaring neutrality, Bulgaria took further steps to distance itself from the Axis Powers. It severed diplomatic relations with Germany and allowed Soviet forces to cross its territory to engage German forces. Bulgaria also declared war on Germany on September 5, 1944, and joined the Allies. This marked a complete reversal from its initial alignment with the Axis Powers.

Post-War Repercussions
Bulgaria's late entry into the war on the side of the Allies had significant implications for the country in the post-war period. The Soviet Union, as a major power in the region, had a strong influence on Bulgaria's political landscape, leading to a period of Soviet-backed communist rule.

In conclusion, while Bulgaria initially aligned with the Axis Powers, it ultimately shifted its allegiance and joined the Allies towards the end of World War II. This change was influenced by a combination of internal pressures, the changing dynamics of the war, and the strategic interests of the Soviet Union. The decision had profound effects on Bulgaria's political future and its relationship with its neighbors and the broader international community.

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On 23 August 1944, Romania left the Axis Powers and declared war on Germany, and allowed Soviet forces to cross its territory to reach Bulgaria. On 26 August, the Bulgarian government announced that it was neutral in the German-Soviet war and ordered German troops to leave the country.read more >>