Pro-Russian interim president leads in exit polls of Bulgarian presidential election

According to exit polls, Jotova is leading with approximately 52% of the votes, while her opponent Gjoerov has around 44%. The final results are expected on Monday. Jotova, from the Progressive Bulgaria party, succeeded Rumen Radev as interim president after his resignation. The Ukraine war significantly influenced the campaign, with recent drone attacks on ships from Ukraine affecting Bulgaria. Both candidates condemned the attacks, but Jotova was cautious about linking them to Russia, while Gjoerov accused her of avoiding criticism of Russia. Jotova and Radev advocate for dialogue with Russia and oppose military support for Ukraine, aiming to strengthen ties with the EU and NATO. The Bulgarian presidency is largely ceremonial, with the prime minister holding executive power, but the president can influence legislation and leads the military.