Ukraine denies targeting Bulgaria as drone explodes near pipeline

Ukraine has denied intentionally targeting Bulgaria after a drone, which Sofia identified as likely being of Ukrainian origin, exploded near the strategic Trans-Balkan gas pipeline. The incident has heightened tensions as Ukraine continues to defend against Russia's invasion.

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We can say with certainty that the Ukrainian Armed Forces did not intentionally direct any assets toward Bulgaria.

Bulgaria's defense ministry reported that the drone was of a type "widely used by the Ukrainian military." In response, Bulgaria's foreign minister summoned the Ukrainian ambassador for a meeting. Kyiv, however, stated it was in "close contact with the Bulgarian side to clarify the circumstances" and asserted that the Ukrainian Armed Forces "did not intentionally direct any assets toward Bulgaria." A Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman blamed Russia's invasion for the incident.

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The drone exploded in the immediate vicinity of the Kardam border-crossing with Romania, 1,000 metres from the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline’s compressor station.

The drone exploded in the vicinity of the Kardam border crossing with Romania, approximately 1,000 meters from a compressor station of the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline. While the explosion caused no casualties, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev noted the drone carried a "significant amount of explosives." He added that the drone had not been detected by either neighboring country, highlighting the challenges in identifying and neutralizing such threats.

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One thing is certain: the drone was carrying a significant amount of explosives, given that it could be heard from a distance and produced such black smoke.

Incidents involving drones have become increasingly frequent in Eastern European NATO member states. Romania, in particular, has experienced numerous drone incursions since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In response to the latest event, Bulgaria has enhanced its surveillance and redeployed troops to its borders to implement anti-drone measures.

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As you know, identifying and neutralising these drones poses a major challenge.