Ukraine denies targeting Bulgaria as drone explodes near pipeline

Bulgaria dismissed allegations that Ukraine had targeted its country after a drone exploded near a critical Trans-Balkan gas pipeline near Romania's Black Sea border. President Rumen Radev of Bulgaria announced that his nation would deploy additional troops and soldiers to its borders to monitor and counter drones. The Bulgarian defence ministry stated that the drone in question was a common type used by the Ukrainian military.

In response, Bulgaria summoned the Ukrainian ambassador for discussions on the matter. Ukraine denied intentionally directing any assets toward Bulgaria, attributing the incident to Russia's ongoing invasion of the country. The explosion occurred near the Kardam border crossing with Romania and 1,000 meters from the gas pipeline's compressor station.

Although no injuries were reported, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev emphasized the significant amount of explosives carried by the drone. Investigations into the debris found no evidence suggesting a deliberate attack. The drone crashed into a sunflower field and was not detected by either Bulgaria or Romania before the incident.

Drone incursions have become more frequent in recent months among NATO members supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, with Romania facing numerous such cases since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.