Anti-graft commission formed amid economic unease and geopolitical shifts
Bulgaria is establishing a new anti-corruption commission, a move that has coincided with the unfreezing of EU recovery funds tied to Radev's anti-corruption pledges. However, questions linger over potential corruption in public contracts and ongoing economic challenges, including high inflation and consumption growth outpacing the economy.
In foreign policy, Bulgaria's stance on sanctions against Russia is being leveraged by Greece for gas supplies, while domestically, President Radev is involved in controversies regarding the transfer of military jets and has seen his associates involved in public disputes. The parliament has also approved the basing of US aircraft in Bezmer, signaling a strengthened security alliance.
On a more local level, a troubling case of a kidnapped girl has been resolved with the stepfather's detention and subsequent charges. Elsewhere, Sofia residents face potential increases in heating fees, and public trust in the government has seen a second consecutive monthly decline.