Wagner-linked base spotted in Bulgaria

On February 9, 2026, Bulgarian activists reported finding a compound affiliated with Russia’s Wagner Group above the village of Kladnitsa in Pernik Province. According to the anti-corruption association BOEC and its head Georgi Georgiev, the site is heavily guarded by dogs and personnel dressed in Wagner uniforms, displaying both a Russian flag and Wagner emblems. The location reportedly serves as a hub for terrorist activity linked to the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group, which is controlled by Russian intelligence services. BOEC filed a complaint with Bulgaria's Interior Ministry, noting the presence of armed individuals and use of symbols tied to Russian state security and terrorist organizations, with suspicion that some personnel might be current or former local security forces. No official response or action had yet been taken by authorities at the time of reporting.