Rumen Radev wins in Bulgaria, says Europe is “a victim of its ambition to act as a moral leader.”
Euronews.com • • general
Key Points:
- Bulgaria's snap elections show former president Rumen Radev as the clear frontrunner, securing between 43% to 45% of the vote, significantly ahead of the conservative GERB party led by Boyko Borissov, which is projected to receive around 13%.
- Radev declared the election a victory for hope, freedom, and morality, emphasizing Bulgaria's continued commitment to the European Union while advocating for critical thinking, pragmatism, and restoring Europe's industrial competitiveness.
- Internationally, Radev is known for his opposition to sending military aid to Ukraine and his criticism of EU policies, warning that such support risks involving Bulgaria in the conflict, and for calling for dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- His campaign has faced controversy, including criticism over a video featuring his meeting with Putin and his reaffirmation of the statement that "Crimea is Russian," which has drawn backlash domestically and internationally.
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