In Bulgaria, an exit poll suggests that the center-left Progressive Bulgaria coalition, led by former President Rumen Radev, is likely to win the parliamentary election with 39.2% support. This surpasses the center-right GERB party, which is expected to receive 15.1%. Despite this lead, Radev may need to form alliances to govern, as his coalition might not secure enough seats for a one-party government. Voter turnout was reported at 43.4%, with six parties potentially entering a fragmented parliament. This election follows a period of political instability, with Bulgaria experiencing eight elections in five years due to government resignations and protests against corruption. Radev, a popular figure with pro-Russian views, aims to address the country’s oligarchic corruption and has called for high voter turnout to combat vote-buying.
QUESTION: How might the election of a pro-Russian leader in Bulgaria impact the country’s relationship with the European Union?
Bulgarians head to the polls to elect a parliament for the eighth time in 5 years
