Radev quits as Bulgaria’s president amid political turmoil; ex‑air force general, longtime anti‑corruption ticket leader now out of office.
International groups report worsening press freedom in Serbia, citing increased violence and attacks on journalists during recent local elections. The government condemns violence but faces accusations of suppressing media and political repression, with protests and violence continuing in several towns.
Bulgaria has held its eighth parliamentary election in five years, resulting in a decisive victory for Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria coalition. The win has allowed Radev to form the country's first single-party government in nearly 30 years, promising to tackle corruption and provide political stability after years of fragmented parliaments and protests.
With 96% of ballots counted, Bulgaria's Progressive Bulgaria coalition has secured 44.7% of the vote, leading over the center-right GERB party. Rumen Radev, a former president and Eurosceptic, has declared victory and aims to form a government. The election follows protests and political instability.
Ukraine is working to establish a European anti-ballistic missile system within a year, aiming to counter Russian missile attacks on energy infrastructure. Ukraine's reliance on limited Patriot systems highlights the need for a broader defense strategy amid ongoing missile strikes and stockpile shortages.
Bulgarian voters have elected Radev's Progressive Bulgaria with 44.7% of the vote, surpassing polls and potentially ending years of political instability. Radev, a Eurosceptic and former president, is expected to pursue domestic reforms and continue Bulgaria's European integration, though foreign policy remains uncertain. The election marks Bulgaria's first clear majority since 1997.
The incoming Hungarian prime minister has been engaging Brussels to unlock billions in EU Covid recovery funds, seeking to address rule-of-law concerns and resume disbursal. Meetings with EU leaders have signalled a push for quick reforms, with the clock ticking toward August milestones that could see funds released or permanently lost.
EU foreign ministers are discussing the idea of engaging directly with Russia to end the Ukraine war, with Kyiv urging Europe to take a strong role. Names floated for a potential EU envoy include Angela Merkel, Mario Draghi, and Sauli Niinistö, though Brussels remains cautious about impartiality amid stalled US-led negotiations.
Bulgaria has won Eurovision 2026 in Vienna with Dara's Bangaranga, finishing on 516 points. Israel's Noam Bettan has finished second on 343 points amid protests and a five-country boycott over Israel's war in Gaza. Organisers have tightened voting rules after allegations of organised voting for Israel.
EU foreign ministers in Cyprus are weighing how to conduct talks with Russia as Kyiv seeks deeper European involvement. While the idea of designating an envoy has circulated, ministers stress unity and focus on substantive goals, with discussions ongoing about who could represent Europe at the negotiating table.