Russia praises Bulgaria's restrained rhetoric under Radev government

Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has noted a shift in Bulgaria's rhetoric regarding Russia and the Ukraine crisis following the ascent of the government led by former President Rumen Radev. Yury Filipson, Director of the Second European Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated in an interview with TASS that Sofia's position has become "more restrained" and has acquired "rational elements."

Filipson noted that Bulgaria is increasingly calling for the European Union to reconsider its current course and is warning against the risks of attempting a military victory over Russia, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions. This shift is linked to Bulgaria's stance toward the so-called "Coalition of the Willing," which Russia characterizes as a "group of war instigators."

Despite this assessment, Filipson indicated it is premature to discuss restoring "mutually beneficial Russian-Bulgarian cooperation," citing Sofia's high level of political dependence on Brussels as a barrier. This follows Radev's previous decision in Paris to decline an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron to join the coalition, citing a preference for diplomatic resolution while maintaining that collective security matters are addressed through NATO and the EU.