Bulgaria holds presidential elections amid divisions over Ukraine war
Bulgaria is holding presidential elections amid security concerns related to the Ukraine war, with candidates divided on foreign policy. Incumbent President Iliana Iotova leads the polls, advocating dialogue with Moscow, while her main opponent, Andrey Gyurov, supports stronger ties with the West. The election is influenced by recent drone attacks on ships in the Black Sea and rising economic issues, including inflation and energy prices. If no candidate secures a majority, a runoff will occur on November 1.