European Commission President's Plane Experiences Suspected Russian GPS Jamming Over Bulgaria
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's plane experienced suspected Russian GPS jamming near Plovdiv, Bulgaria, forcing crew to use paper maps. This incident highlights EU concerns over electronic interference.
Overview
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's plane encountered suspected Russian GPS jamming while approaching Plovdiv Airport in Bulgaria, causing a delay in landing.
The aircraft's navigation system was affected by the interference, compelling the crew to rely on traditional paper maps to safely guide the plane to its destination.
This incident occurred during von der Leyen's four-day tour of EU member states bordering Russia and Belarus, underscoring heightened regional tensions and geopolitical context.
The European Union has expressed increasing concerns regarding a surge in electronic interference, which is impacting both air and sea travel in the vicinity.
During her visit, von der Leyen has been vocal in addressing military threats and criticizing Russia's ongoing actions in Ukraine, linking to the broader geopolitical context.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the GPS jamming incident by reporting official suspicions of Russian involvement while also providing crucial counter-perspectives and broader context. They present the incident as a suspected operation but include denials and expert opinions that question direct attribution or severity, demonstrating a commitment to balanced reporting.

