Author: Rachel Maddow

Bulgaria has arrested a Russian shipowner in connection with the deadly Beirut port explosion in 2020, authorities confirmed. The arrest comes amid ongoing international investigations into the disaster that killed over 200 people, injured thousands, and caused massive damage across the Lebanese capital. The detained individual is believed to have had ownership or operational control of the vessel that transported the large stockpile of ammonium nitrate stored at the port. Investigators are examining the chain of responsibility to determine liability and accountability for the blast. Background on the Beirut Explosion On August 4, 2020, a warehouse in Beirut’s port area…

Plovdiv has become the focal point of Bulgaria’s construction boom, attracting attention from developers, investors, and homebuyers alike. The city is witnessing unprecedented growth in residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, reflecting strong demand and economic confidence. Property prices in Plovdiv have been rising steadily, driven by both local buyers and foreign investors. The city’s strategic location, cultural appeal, and economic opportunities make it a prime destination for real estate development. Residential Development The residential sector in Plovdiv is expanding rapidly. Modern apartment complexes, luxury condos, and affordable housing projects are under construction across the city. Developers are focusing on high-quality…

Bulgaria achieved a remarkable performance at the Balkan Equestrian Championship in Belgrade, winning four medals across various events. The competition brought together top riders from across the region, showcasing skill, precision, and teamwork in equestrian sports. The Bulgarian team demonstrated excellence in dressage, show jumping, and eventing categories, with both individual and team performances earning recognition. Their success reflects the country’s growing reputation in equestrian competitions in the Balkan region. Medal Highlights Bulgaria’s medal haul included a mix of gold, silver, and bronze awards. Notable performances came from riders who delivered flawless routines and maintained strong connections with their horses.…

Bulgaria secured a flawless 3–0 victory over Chile at the Men’s Volleyball World Championship, clinching the top spot in Group E. The match highlighted Bulgaria’s dominance, combining aggressive attacks, solid defense, and precise teamwork to overwhelm the Chilean side. From the first serve, Bulgaria established control. The team’s powerful spikes and well-timed blocks kept Chile on the defensive throughout the match, while their quick transitions and strategic plays prevented any sustained rallies by the opposition. Set-by-Set Highlights In the first set, Bulgaria showcased its offensive strength. Outside hitters executed precise spikes, and the setters orchestrated smooth plays, resulting in a…

Bulgaria has begun dismantling the Soviet Army monument that has towered over Sofia since 1954, marking the end of a symbolic presence in the city’s skyline. The monument, erected to commemorate the Red Army’s role in World War II, has been a subject of public debate for decades, with opinions divided over its historical and political significance. Authorities cited urban development and evolving public sentiment as key reasons for the removal. The dismantling process is being conducted carefully to preserve historical artifacts while transforming the space for future civic use. Historical Context The Soviet Army monument was constructed shortly after…

Spanish actor Nacho Guerreros, widely recognized for his role in the popular series La que se avecina, recently opened up about a troubling incident that occurred during his visit to Bulgaria. The actor spoke candidly about how the experience affected him personally, providing fans with rare insight into challenges he faced while abroad. Guerreros described the event as unexpected and emotionally challenging. Though details remain partially private, he emphasized the significance of the experience on both his personal and professional outlook. Personal Impact and Reflection Speaking to media outlets, Guerreros explained that the incident left a strong impression, prompting reflection…

Actor Ajith Kumar has captured the hearts of fans once again, this time through his adventurous spirit on a Romania-Bulgaria bike tour. The popular actor, known for his action-packed roles and dedication to fitness, shared updates from his journey, inspiring fans with his love for long-distance riding and exploration. The bike tour highlights Ajith Kumar’s personal passion for motorcycling, a hobby he has maintained alongside his busy film career. Fans have praised his commitment to adventure, seeing it as an expression of freedom, discipline, and enthusiasm for life. Exploring Romania and Bulgaria The tour covers scenic routes across Romania and…

Sofia has welcomed its newest Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school, marking a milestone in overseas education. Designed to provide innovative learning opportunities for children of U.S. military and civilian personnel, the school emphasizes academic excellence, technology integration, and holistic development. Officials, educators, and families celebrated the opening, highlighting the school’s commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century while fostering a supportive and engaging environment. Innovative Curriculum and Learning Spaces The new DoDEA school in Sofia offers a curriculum designed to encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. State-of-the-art classrooms, flexible learning spaces, and modern…

St. John’s International School has announced exceptional results for the 2025 International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations, reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence and commitment to holistic education. Students across the Diploma Programme have delivered outstanding performances, reflecting rigorous preparation, dedication, and high-quality teaching. The school reported an average score significantly above the global IB average, with a substantial number of students achieving top marks. Several students earned perfect scores in individual subjects, demonstrating exceptional mastery and scholarship. Academic Excellence and Preparation The remarkable results highlight the school’s strong academic framework. Teachers provide personalized support, rigorous coursework, and opportunities for critical thinking,…

Cities around the world are increasingly recognizing culture as a key driver of sustainable urban development, and Sofia is no exception. Beyond aesthetics and entertainment, cultural initiatives influence social cohesion, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Urban planners and policymakers in Sofia are integrating culture into city strategies to create vibrant, inclusive, and resilient communities. Cultural projects—from heritage preservation to creative industries—can revitalize neighborhoods, attract tourism, and foster a sense of belonging. They often serve as catalysts for broader urban regeneration, combining economic, social, and environmental benefits in one approach. Heritage and Identity Preserving Sofia’s cultural heritage is central to sustainable…