The plane carrying European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen experienced GPS jamming while landing in southern Bulgaria, with authorities suspecting Russian interference.

Pilots had to rely on paper maps and alternative navigation methods but landed safely.

The EU condemned the incident as part of Russia’s hostile tactics and vowed to strengthen defence and satellite capabilities.

Bulgaria confirmed the GPS signal was neutralized, while Moscow denied involvement.

The case highlights growing concerns over widespread GPS jamming and spoofing across Europe, particularly near Russian borders, which experts warn poses serious aviation safety risks, the BBC has reported.

Von der Leyen was visiting eastern EU states to discuss defence readiness.