Bulgarian authorities announced this Monday that they had banned entry to two Russian nationals on allegations of espionage. Accused individuals, Vladimir Nikolayevich Gorochkin and Tatiana Anatolievna Gorochkina, have reportedly set up false identities, assuming the names of Denis Rashkov and Diana Rashkova, and presenting themselves as Bulgarian citizens.
According to the authorities, there is significant evidence to show that these individuals have been acting against the security of Bulgaria. It is believed that both Gorochkin and Gorochkina are involved in espionage activities for the Foreign Intelligence Service of the Russian Federation and took part in conducting foreign espionage. At present, their exact whereabouts remain uncertain, but it is considered likely they have already left the country.
Bulgaria, distancing itself from Russia in recent years, has supported sanctions against Moscow since its invasion of Ukraine. The concern over Russian espionage is not new for this Balkan nation.
- In 2021, six individuals were detained in the capital, Sofia, for their alleged involvement in espionage. This includes three individuals from Bulgaria’s own Defence Ministry.
- In 2022, 70 Russian diplomatic staff were expelled due to concerns of espionage activities under the guise of diplomatic work.
- Most recently, in early February 2024, an official from Bulgaria’s own interior ministry was arrested on charges of spying for Russia.
The continuing instances underscore the significant challenges Bulgaria faces in its struggles against foreign espionage.