Sofia

Tensions in the Black Sea region have escalated, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as NATO announces plans to bolster its military presence, with a new base set to be established in Bulgaria.

Overnight, expect considerable cloud cover, particularly in western regions, accompanied by showers. In Northwestern Bulgaria, expect a west-northwest wind bringing colder air. Across the rest of the country, the wind will be moderate from the south-southwest. Minimum temperatures will range from 13°C to 18°C, slightly lower in northwestern areas, with Sofia at around 13°C.

The Ministry of Interior is suggesting a revision and addition to the rules governing the issuance of Bulgarian personal documents, which entails a rise in the fee for obtaining an identity card - shifting from the existing 18 BGN to 30 BGN.

In a chilling turn of events, the lifeless body of a man was discovered in Sofia's "Zapaden Park" yesterday, as reported by NovaTV.

The circumstances surrounding the man's death remain shrouded in mystery, but sources from NovaTV indicate that his hands were bound with pig tails, adding a disturbing layer to the investigation.

During the night, the skies will mostly clear, accompanied by light to moderate winds blowing from the west-southwest. Minimum temperatures are expected to range between 13°C and 18°C, with around 13°C in Sofia.

In a significant move towards bolstering security in the Black Sea region, the Turkish Parliament has ratified a memorandum paving the way for the establishment of a Mine Countermeasures Naval Group. This development was underscored by Bulgaria's Caretaker Defence Minister, Atanas Zapryanov, during the Black Sea security conference held in Sofia.

Sofia residents who have dutifully paid their local taxes for the year 2024 have collectively pocketed a substantial sum, saving a remarkable BGN 4,678 million by April 14. This significant boon in savings comes as a result of timely payments, demonstrating a responsible approach to civic obligations.

Amidst escalating tensions in the Black Sea region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivered a message of solidarity to allies, emphasizing the unwavering support of the United States. Speaking at the Second Black Sea Security Conference in Sofia, Blinken underscored the crucial role of investing in the security of the Black Sea to ensure peace and freedom in the region and Europe.

Lyuben Kanev, a rising star from Bulgaria, is poised to make a splash in London's esteemed West End theatre scene. Scheduled for April 18th, Kanev will take on the role of Marc in Yasmina Reza's acclaimed play "Art" at Soho Theatre, as part of an Industry Showcase event, BTA reported.

As the new week unfolds, Bulgarians are greeted with the promise of sunny skies and rising temperatures, courtesy of a southerly wind ushering in a welcome warmth. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) forecasts maximum temperatures ranging between 29° and 34° across the country, with Sofia hovering around a balmy 30 degrees.