Bulgaria says it has broken up a Russian spy ring and arrested defence ministry and military intelligence staff who sought to provide Moscow with secrets that could damage Bulgarian, EU, US and Nato security. Six Bulgarians have been arrested for alleged involvement in the spy ring, which was led by a former military intelligence officer who is accused of recruiting agents with access to classified military and technological information. One of the alleged spies worked in planning at the Bulgarian defence ministry, and at least two others are serving military intelligence officers. “This investigation is of particular importance for the security of Bulgaria, the EU, Nato and the United States. Relations have been strained in recent years by Bulgaria’s expulsion of several Russian diplomats over spy scandals, however.

Source: The Irish Times March 19, 2021 17:59 UTC