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Archived edition · September 18, 2026 Today's news →

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Government Unveils Economic Relief, Boosts Defense Amid New Case Twists

Bulgaria's government, led by Prime Minister Rumen Radev, has introduced new measures to ease economic pressures, including removing the excise tax on propane-butane and providing a 50-euro one-time aid to low-income households. This initiative, part of a 300 million euro 'inflationary check', directly addresses concerns over rising fuel prices and economic burdens. Concurrently, the nation is bolstering its defense capabilities by acquiring additional anti-drone systems and enhancing security at military facilities, with new directives for military personnel to guard lower airspace and pilots authorized to engage drones.

In the education sector, the disappointing PISA 2025 results are prompting calls for significant reforms, with the Ministry of Education planning new measures to improve student discipline. Meanwhile, the ongoing 'Petrohan' case has seen new developments, including the mysterious disappearance of Vladimir Malinov's indictment document and a request to remove criminal psychologist Rosen Yordanov from the expert team. Investigations also reveal that the National Security Agency (DANS) and the Prosecutor's Office were aware of issues surrounding Petrohan for at least a year prior to a significant incident.

Other key stories include the antitrust commission probing businessman Hristo Kovachki's potential involvement in the Maritsa East 3 power plant deal, and President Iliana Iotova's statements regarding not pardoning drug traffickers and her stance on labeling Russia an aggressor. The healthcare system is also under scrutiny with new, critically viewed treatment protocols for common ailments and serious conditions.

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Government Announces Economic Relief Measures

The government has rolled out new economic measures to alleviate the burden of high fuel prices, including the removal of excise tax on propane-butane and a one-time financial aid of 50 euros for low-income households. A 300 million euro 'inflationary check' is also being introduced to support citizens and businesses.

Defense Capabilities Enhanced with New Anti-Drone Systems and Airspace Rules

Bulgaria is strengthening its defense capabilities by purchasing additional anti-drone systems and increasing security at military factories. New protocols will also see the military guarding lower airspace, with pilots authorized to make independent decisions on engaging drones.

PISA 2025 Results Trigger Education Reform Calls

Following the release of PISA 2025 results, which indicate that a significant portion of Bulgarian students perceive school as unproductive, there are strong calls for educational reform. The Ministry of Education plans to propose new measures to improve student discipline in response to the disappointing performance.

Petrohan Case Sees Missing Indictment and Expert Dispute

New developments in the 'Petrohan' case include the mysterious disappearance of Vladimir Malinov's indictment document. Furthermore, lawyers have requested the removal of criminal psychologist Rosen Yordanov from the expert team, despite his refusal to withdraw. It has also come to light that DANS and the Prosecutor's Office were aware of issues surrounding Petrohan for at least a year prior to a significant incident.

Healthcare System Scrutinized Over Treatment Protocols

New treatment protocols for common ailments like cystitis and serious conditions such as stroke are facing critical examination, with concerns raised about the adequacy of the allotted treatment durations in hospitals.

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