On Sunday, a group of nationalist protesters attempted to block European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen from entering a weapons factory in Sopot by attacking a vehicle they believed she was inside.
The protest was organized by the nationalist party “Revival” (Vazrazhdane), led by Kostadin Kostadinov, known for his anti-NATO rhetoric and opposition to Bulgaria’s European integration. He was joined by members of another nationalist party, “Velichie”, calling for the “protection of national sovereignty.”
Social media footage shows Kostadinov and other protesters surrounding a black vehicle, striking it with banners while police attempted to clear the way. Protesters waved Bulgarian and Russian flags, shouting “Nazis” at authorities.
It remains unclear if Von der Leyen was inside the vehicle, with Kostadinov later claiming she had arrived at the factory by helicopter.
The incident has sparked reactions across Bulgaria and internationally, highlighting ongoing political tensions and the rise of pro-Russian rhetoric in the country.
