Tensions between Bulgaria and Russia have escalated as the Bulgarian government commenced the demolition of the iconic Soviet Army monument in the heart of its capital city Sofia, sparking strong warnings from Vladimir Putin and Moscow.
The move, long sought by the pro-European liberal faction in Bulgaria, has drawn condemnation from the Russian Foreign Ministry, with spokeswoman Maria Zakharova issuing threats and claiming that Bulgaria will face consequences for its “shameful decision.”
The monument, which has stood for nearly seven decades, symbolises Soviet dominance over Bulgaria and has been a subject of controversy since the collapse of the totalitarian regime in 1989 – 34 years ago.
Sofia’s regional governor, Vyara Todeva, announced plans for the restoration of the monument, with the displayed figures to be housed in the Museum of Socialist Art after a public procurement process.
Russia’s response was swift and forceful. Zakharova took to Facebook, criticising Bulgaria’s decision and warning of repercussions. She said: “Bulgaria again, as has happened more than once, chooses the wrong side of history. Bulgaria will have to fully pay the consequences of this shameful decision.”
The Russian government’s reaction highlights the sensitivity surrounding the historical narrative, as the Soviet Union played a pivotal role in Bulgaria’s post-World War II era, occupying the country for more than two years and influencing the establishment of a puppet totalitarian regime for the subsequent 45 years.
Bulgarian authorities, despite citing the deteriorating condition of the statues as the official reason for dismantling the monument, have faced accusations of lacking courage in taking such a step earlier, fearing backlash from pro-Russian circles and the Kremlin.
President Rumen Radev, perceived as pro-Russian, expressed concern over what he called an “aggressive offensive against statehood, history, and memory,” characterising the move as the restoration of fascism in Bulgaria. Opposition figures, such as Georgi Svilenski from the pro-Russian Bulgarian Socialist Party, went further, accusing those in power of exhibiting behaviour that “borders on barbarism, borders on fascism, borders on insanity.”
The Russian threat and Bulgaria’s determination to reshape its historical landscape may have far-reaching implications for diplomatic relations within the European Union.
