Kirill Petkov explained that the Russians were connected with the special services and acted contrary to the interests of Bulgaria.

The Bulgarian authorities decided to expel 70 diplomats and technical staff of the Russian embassy. It is reported by BNT.

"Our special services identified them as people who were largely connected with their special services and acted contrary to the interests of our country. I want to congratulate the Bulgarian special services and the Foreign Ministry on doing their job," he said.

Petkov added that the Russians' diplomatic role "was more of a front." According to the Prime Minister, they held various official positions and were engaged in "activities uncharacteristic of these diplomatic posts."

"This is by no means aggression against the Russian people - it's just that when foreign governments try to interfere in the internal affairs of Bulgaria, we have clear institutions that will counteract. We expect a 70-seat plane to return to Moscow," he added.

In turn, a source in the Russian Foreign Ministry told TASS that Russia would respond to the expulsion of 70 diplomats by Bulgaria.