Bulgarian political figures warn of social division and economic hardship

Former President Petar Stoyanov has expressed concern that the war in Ukraine is harming Bulgarian national interests and deepening societal divisions. Speaking on bTV, Stoyanov addressed criticisms regarding the government's perceived hesitation compared to neighbors like Romania and Turkey. He suggested the government may be acting cautiously to avoid alienating voters sensitive to Russia ahead of elections, while also attempting to position Bulgaria as a mediator for peace within the European Union. Stoyanov emphasized that for peace initiatives to be credible, the aggressor must be clearly identified.

Meanwhile, GERB-SDS Deputy Rumen Hristov warned of a potentially severe winter, drawing comparisons to the difficult Videna winter. Hristov noted that while energy and heating prices are being artificially held, rising costs for goods and services are creating public tension. He criticized the government for failing to deliver promised price reductions, noting that instead of a 10 to 15 percent decrease, prices have likely increased by a similar margin. Hristov also touched upon political developments, stating his personal support for Andrey Gyurov in the presidential runoff despite his party's stance.