Bulgaria and Ukraine investigate drone explosion near gas pipeline

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Posted Aug 17, 2026, 08:30 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-08-17-2030
Bulgaria and Ukraine investigate drone explosion near gas pipeline
Photo: Le Monde

Bulgarian and Ukrainian officials are investigating an explosive drone crash near a gas pipeline in northeastern Bulgaria, with authorities noting no evidence of intentional targeting.

Bulgarian authorities and Ukrainian officials are coordinating an inquiry following the crash of an explosive-laden drone near a strategic gas installation in northeastern Bulgaria, close to the Romanian border.

Bulgaria's Ministry of Defense reported that the recovered aircraft corresponds to models frequently operated by the Ukrainian military. However, defense officials highlighted that initial findings show no indication of a deliberate strike on Bulgarian territory.

In response, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Kyiv is collaborating closely with Sofia to clarify the incident, emphasising that Ukraine had no intention of targeting sites in Bulgaria. The blast resulted in no casualties or damage to the nearby pipeline infrastructure.

Sources: Le Monde, Le Soir, Libération.

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