Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rumen Radev has announced the country’s intention to veto a new package of European Union sanctions against Russia, expressing concerns that these measures could adversely affect the Bulgarian economy.
Radev also cited disagreement with the sanctions imposed on Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, stating, “There is a significant risk for the operations of Lukoil. We want it excluded from the sanctions list.” Lukoil is one of Bulgaria’s largest fuel suppliers and operates the country’s sole oil refinery in Burgas.
In his remarks, Radev highlighted potential issues related to the supply of fertilizers and components necessary for the maintenance of Sofia’s metro system. He questioned the effectiveness of the sanctions, asking, “How have these sanctions stopped the war? And how have they contributed to peace?”
“All these issues must be resolved within the EU decision-making bodies,” Radev added.
Additionally, Radev expressed his opposition to sanctions targeting high-ranking officials of the Russian Orthodox Church, stating, “This war has already transcended the trenches; it extends beyond the economy and energy, and we see its impact on culture and sports, and now it is poised to engulf religion.”
Despite his objections to the sanctions, Radev assured that Bulgaria would not obstruct EU decisions regarding support for Ukraine. He affirmed, “We will support the negotiation process for Ukraine’s EU accession.”
On June 15, the European Union approved another round of sanctions against Russia, aimed at its military-industrial complex, shadow fleet, and networks supporting Moscow’s hybrid attacks against Europe. The new restrictions target Russia’s military-industrial sector, energy revenues, shadow fleet, hybrid influence networks, propagandists, and individuals involved in human rights violations.
Bulgaria's Prime Minister Rumen Radev has declared his intention to veto new EU sanctions against Russia, citing economic risks and disagreement with specific measures. He emphasized the need for discussions within EU bodies and reaffirmed Bulgaria's commitment to supporting Ukraine's EU accession.