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The EU regrets the unjustified threat by the Russian Federation to sever diplomatic ties with Bulgaria in response to Bulgaria's decision, fully within the framework of international law, to expel 70 employees of the Russian Embassy who acted in violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

This was stated in a statement by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service.

The EU expresses full support and sympathy with Bulgaria in these circumstances, and will monitor the issue closely, the statement added.

Russia's ultimatum to cancel the decision to expel 70 Russian diplomats expires

Such a disproportionate step on the part of Russia can only further serve for its international isolation, adds the spokesperson, quoted by BTA.

Russian diplomats