Bulgarian authorities reported that GPS navigation systems at Plovdiv Airport were hit by a suspected Russian interference, disrupting communication with the plane carrying European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as it approached for landing over the weekend.
According to a government statement released on September 1, the airport control tower lost the GPS signal from the aircraft. Despite this, the plane landed safely using ground-based navigation systems independent of GPS.
“There was a neutralization of the satellite signal that provides information to the aircraft’s GPS navigation system. During the approach to Plovdiv Airport, the GPS signal disappeared,” the statement said.
EU officials confirmed the incident on August 31, noting that Bulgarian authorities suspect open interference by Russia.
“We are, of course, aware and accustomed to threats and intimidation, which are part of Russia’s regular hostile behavior,” said European Commission spokesperson Arianna Podesta.
Russian officials have not publicly commented on the allegations.
Von der Leyen, known for her strong criticisms of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, is on a four-day tour of EU countries bordering Russia and Belarus, Russia’s closest ally in the region.
Podesta added that the incident underscores the urgency of the mission the Commission President is carrying out in frontline member states.
“Naturally, this will further strengthen our unwavering commitment to enhance defense capacities and support for Ukraine,” she emphasized.
