World
Bulgaria Holds Presidential Run‑Off as Ship Attacks Continue
Bulgaria is conducting a presidential run‑off election amid a backdrop of regional security concerns and domestic economic issues. President Iliana Iotova, 61, led former caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov, 50, in the first round but did not reach the 50 percent threshold required for an outright win. The first round saw a record low turnout, with only 23 percent of eligible voters casting ballots, according to election officials. Exit polls will be released after voting ends at 8 pm (18:00 GMT) on Sunday, with results expected on Monday.
The vote occurs while a series of drone attacks on merchant ships off Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast have taken place over the past month, drawing international condemnation and raising concerns about the expanding reach of Russia’s war on Ukraine. About two dozen seafarers are feared dead, and the strikes have prompted the government to seek assistance from allies to strengthen maritime security. A Greek container ship sank on Wednesday after being hit by sea drones.
Both leading candidates have condemned the attacks. Prime Minister Rumen Radev, who supports Iotova, said the strikes’ outcome “benefits the Russian Federation.” They have called for a diplomatic end to the war in Ukraine.
If Iotova wins, she will become Bulgaria’s first elected female president. She became acting president in January after Radev resigned to run for parliament, a move many analysts viewed as aligned with Kremlin interests. Gyurov, who served as caretaker prime minister this year, is backed by pro‑Western, reformist parties and has long supported Ukraine, having signed a security cooperation agreement with Kyiv during his premiership. Gyurov says he wants Bulgaria to be a reliable NATO ally that can stand up for its interests with strong diplomacy and a firm position. Right‑leaning political figures, including former Prime Minister Boiko Borisov, have expressed support for Gyurov.
Frequently asked questions
What was the voter turnout in the first round of Bulgaria's presidential election?
Only 23 percent of eligible voters cast ballots.
What incidents have occurred near Bulgaria's Black Sea coast?
Drone attacks on merchant ships have taken place over the past month, with about two dozen seafarers feared dead and a Greek container ship sinking after being hit by sea drones.
Who would become Bulgaria's first elected female president if she wins?
Iliana Iotova would become Bulgaria's first elected female president.