Tensions between Bulgaria and Russia escalated to a new high with two russian planes full of Russian diplomatic staff and their families set to leave Sofia on Sunday.
Philip Voskresensky, a high-ranking Russian diplomat, told reporters at the airport in The Bulgarian capital, Sofia, was among 70 Russian diplomats declared persona non grata. last A week and ordered to leave the country before Monday.
Historically known to be close to Russia, he expelled Bulgaria decision I was announced Via Acting Prime Minister Kirill Petkov, who took strong position against Moscow after it invaded Ukraine on February 24. Petkov, who lost confidence vote on June 22, Moscow allegedly used “hybrid warfare.” tactics To bring down for him government.
Petkov said Russia would keep 43 of its employees after the expulsion and noticed that Bulgaria has just 12 diplomatic staff in Moscow.
“anyone who Works against Interests of Bulgaria will be called to go back to the country they came from.
On Friday, Russian Ambassador Eleonora Mitrofanova issued an ultimatum to Bulgaria to back off decision He threatened that Moscow would cut diplomatic ties completely.
“I intend to urgently raise in front of the leadership of my issue of Conclusion of Embassy of Russia in Bulgaria, which inevitably lead to close of Bulgarian diplomacy mission in Moscow” in a permit.
And the expulsion, which has caused severe tension in diplomatic relations, is the largest number ever of Russian diplomats were expelled by Bulgaria, which includes the European Union and NATO membership. Bulgaria strongly supported Western sanctions against Moscow since it launched its war on Ukraine more Four months ago.
The European Union, of which Bulgaria is a member of Since 2007, she has responded to Russia’s “unjustified threat” and said it “exists in full support and solidarity with Bulgaria”.
In late April, Russia downgraded off Gas supplies to Bulgaria after Moscow officials refused demand to pay gas bills in Russian ruble currency. Bulgaria defense minister I was also Fired in In early March for Referring to the Russian war as “special military Operation,” the Kremlin’s favorite description.
