Archived edition · October 30, 2026 Today's news →

What's happening in Europe?

Flag of Bulgaria

Bulgaria

News summary for

Go to today →

Pardons 📜

Council withdraws support for VP due to double-murder.

President Iliana Yotova is facing intensified scrutiny as new details have emerged about her pardon of an individual convicted of robbery and two murders. This development has led to the Council of Ministers officially withdrawing its support for her presidential campaign, and former Prime Minister Kiril Petkov announcing his intention to file a lawsuit against her.

These revelations coincide with the ongoing presidential election runoff, which saw President Yotova debate challenger Andrey Gyurov. The political climate remains charged, with former President Petar Stoyanov endorsing Gyurov and calling for Russia to be officially labeled an aggressor.

Meanwhile, a series of lawsuits has been filed against the prosecution, including by businessman Vassil Bozhkov, a central figure in the 'Eight Dwarfs' case, and former minister Nenchev. Separately, a protest was held in front of the Russian embassy in Sofia, demanding the resignations of Prime Minister Rumen Radev and President Yotova.

Some sources unavailable — showing 4 of 5 news sources today.

Top stories

Presidential Runoff and Yotova's Pardon Controversy

The ongoing presidential election runoff between President Iliana Yotova and challenger Andrey Gyurov has been overshadowed by new scandalous details regarding Yotova's past pardons, specifically involving an individual convicted of robbery and two murders. In a significant political blow, the Council of Ministers has withdrawn its support for President Yotova, and former Prime Minister Kiril Petkov has announced his intention to sue her. A debate between the two candidates has taken place…

Legal Challenges Against the Prosecution

Several individuals and groups have initiated legal action against the prosecution. This includes businessman Vassil Bozhkov, who has sued the prosecution over the involvement of Geshev and Siyka Mileva. Additionally, a key figure from the 'Eight Dwarfs' case is seeking 100,000 euros in damages, and former minister Nenchev has filed a lawsuit for 50,000 leva related to the MiG aircraft case. These actions suggest growing public and political challenges to the prosecution's conduct.

Protest and Foreign Policy Stance

A protest was held in front of the Russian embassy in Sofia, with demonstrators demanding the resignations of Prime Minister Rumen Radev and President Iliana Yotova, as well as the expulsion of Ambassador Mitrofanova. In a related development, Prime Minister Radev asserted that directly confronting Russia is not an effective security strategy for Bulgaria.

News sources