Monday, 17 August 2026Europe · Analysis
Independent · Brussels & Berlin
Person
Former Prime Minister of Bulgaria, Government of Bulgaria
Former president's Progressive Bulgaria party takes roughly 130 of 240 seats, ending years of fragmented coalitions but raising questions over Sofia's foreign policy direction.
President Iliana Iotova sets April 19 vote after appointing caretaker government, marking eighth parliamentary election since 2021 as no prime minister has completed a full term
The Balkan nation becomes the 21st eurozone member despite seven elections in four years, a resigned government and warnings that institutional weakness could undermine the currency's benefits.
The European Commission and ECB have approved Bulgaria as the 21st euro member, but public opposition stands at 50 percent amid fears of price rises and lost sovereignty.
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