The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Bulgaria, Eleonora Mitrofanova, has sharply criticized attempts to rewrite Bulgarian history and change the date of the national holiday. In an official position on the occasion of March 3, published on social networks, she stated that the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878 paved the way for Bulgaria's sovereignty and condemned as unworthy the aspirations for its denial.
According to the Russian ambassador, the events of 148 years ago remain one of the most important chapters in the common history of the two countries. She expressed gratitude to all Bulgarians who continue to preserve the memory of the fallen Russian soldiers and Bulgarian volunteers. At the same time, the diplomat expressed indignation at the modern reading of historical facts in our country.
"Some “imperial ambitions“ are being emphasized“ of Russia, while nothing is said about the truly nationwide movement in defense of the enslaved Bulgarian brothers, which played a decisive role in declaring war on the Ottoman Empire," wrote Eleonora Mitrofanova in a Facebook post.
She also categorically rejected speculations about the role of the Russian envoy Count Nikolai Ignatiev in the death of Vasil Levski, defining them as completely groundless and ignoring his help to the Christian population.
In his position, the diplomat also directly touched on the political debate in Bulgaria regarding the possible change of the date of the national holiday from March 3 to September 6 (Union) or September 22 (Independence).
"Without belittling the significance of these important events, it should be emphasized that without March 3, 1878, none of them would have been possible," added the Russian representative.
In conclusion, she wished the Bulgarian people well-being, peace and confidence in the future, calling for the preservation of historical truth as a common pride.