Bulgaria says drone that exploded near gas pipeline likely Ukrainian decoy

Bulgaria's Defense Ministry said a drone that exploded near a gas pipeline on August 8 was likely a Ukrainian decoy, but added there is no indication the incident was intentional. Initial analysis of debris indicates a Maya decoy drone, widely used by Ukraine's armed forces, according to Bulgarian National Radio. The drone entered from Romania and fell about 100 meters from the border near a Trans-Balkan pipeline compressor station. No casualties or damage were reported. Unconfirmed reports suggested a Russian Shahed drone. Admiral Emil Eftimov said decoy drones aim to trigger enemy air defenses, citing similar incidents in Turkey and the Baltics. Bulgaria recently left the coalition supporting Ukraine.