Bulgarian PM signals reservations over new EU sanctions on Russia

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev said his government will place reservations on the European Union's 21st package of sanctions against Russia, arguing that Bulgaria's position is guided by its national interest.

Speaking during parliamentary questioning, Radev said, “I will do this because I defend and uphold the Bulgarian national interest,” while rejecting criticism of Sofia's foreign policy and insisting that Bulgaria remains aligned with its EU and NATO allies, 

He stressed that relations with partner countries remain strong, citing recent meetings with European leaders in Germany, France and the United Kingdom as evidence of continued diplomatic engagement.

Addressing Bulgaria's role within NATO, Radev reaffirmed support for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction but said Sofia would not endorse declarations that, in its view, risk escalating the conflict rather than helping to resolve it. He also confirmed that Bulgaria has no plans to withdraw from its security cooperation agreement with Ukraine, noting that the document does not impose binding military obligations and also covers the rights of the Bulgarian minority in Ukraine, Bulgarian-language education, and Black Sea security.

On energy cooperation, Radev said discussions are continuing over the future of the Belene nuclear power plant reactors, including possible cooperation with Ukraine and the development of a joint nuclear project backed by European financing. “I proposed that Bulgaria and Ukraine build a nuclear power plant together and supply electricity,” he said.

Clarifying his position on sanctions, Radev said Bulgaria intends to register reservations rather than exercise a formal veto, signaling objections without blocking the EU's decision-making process.

He also defended his stance on sanctions affecting Russia's energy sector and the Russian Orthodox Church, warning against measures that could undermine Bulgaria's economic stability or energy security. Referring to potential arbitration involving Lukoil's operations in Bulgaria, he said financial risks could amount to billions of euros.

“The path to avoiding arbitration is not through confrontation, but through dialogue,” Radev said, adding that Bulgaria would continue to pursue a balanced and pragmatic approach to sanctions while protecting its national interests.

By Vafa Guliyeva