Two diplomatic vehicles belonging to the Bulgarian embassy were deliberately set on fire in Skopje on Monday, North Macedonia’s interior ministry confirmed. The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between the neighboring Balkan countries, which have amassed over disputes related to North Macedonia’s bid to join the European Union.

Relations between Bulgaria and North Macedonia have been strained for several years. Sofia has repeatedly blocked Skopje’s EU accession talks, citing disagreements over historical interpretations and linguistic differences. Bulgaria asserts that the Macedonian language is a dialect of Bulgarian, a position North Macedonia rejects. Both countries also contest aspects of their shared history, particularly relating to events and figures from the Ottoman period.

North Macedonia’s government condemned the arson attack on the diplomatic vehicles, underscoring a commitment to maintaining peaceful and constructive relations despite the deep-rooted disagreements. Authorities in Skopje have launched an investigation into the incident, although no suspects or motives have been officially disclosed.

The diplomatic fallout between Sofia and Skopje has complicated North Macedonia’s efforts to progress its EU membership, with Bulgaria insisting on resolving historical and cultural disputes as a condition for support. The attack on Bulgarian diplomatic property further inflames a volatile bilateral relationship that continues to hinder regional cooperation and integration efforts in the Western Balkans.