Von der Leyen Faces GPS Jamming in Bulgaria Visit

(MENAFN) During a visit to Bulgaria, the aircraft transporting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen encountered what Bulgarian officials believe to be deliberate GPS interference, allegedly from Russia.

Despite the disruption, the plane landed without incident, according to European Commission representative Arianna Podesta, who spoke to a news agency on Monday.

The event took place on Sunday, as von der Leyen was in Bulgaria for official meetings. In her remarks, Podesta confirmed that “we can confirm there was GPS jamming,” but emphasized that the flight reached its destination safely.

She further noted that Bulgarian authorities suspect Russia was responsible for what they described as “blatant interference.”

Podesta remarked that such tactics are consistent with Russia’s ongoing pattern of aggression and pressure. “We are well aware that threats and intimidation are a regular component of Russia's hostile actions,” she stated, underscoring the seriousness of the incident.

The spokesperson also emphasized that this occurrence strengthens the European Union’s “unshakable commitment to ramp up our defense capabilities and support for Ukraine.”

She explained that von der Leyen’s current mission to EU states bordering conflict zones has revealed the ongoing dangers posed by Russia and its affiliated forces, “where she has seen first-hand the everyday threats from Russia and its proxies.”

Concluding her statement, Podesta highlighted the European Union’s resolve to boost its military investments and preparedness, asserting, “The EU will continue to invest in defence and in Europe's readiness.”

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