Bulgaria budget dispute 2026

In late July 2026, public criticism of Bulgaria’s 2026 state budget intensified. On 28 July, television presenter and party leader Slavi Trifonov used Facebook to denounce President Iliana Yotova and Prime Minister Rumen Radev, calling the budget a “hypocritical deal” that adds €3 billion in spending and a €10 billion debt while lacking clear allocation. He also attacked the decision to station U.S. tanker aircraft at Bezmer air base and raised the alleged misuse of Recovery and Resilience Plan funds in the “Petrohan case”.

The following day, 29 July, Progressive Bulgaria MP Stoian Trichkov turned the hostility onto the opposition, labeling deputies “liars and low manipulators” during a parliamentary speech on the government’s first 100 days. He reiterated criticism of the budget, referenced a child‑hospital project under judicial review, and rejected further military aid to Ukraine, urging a diplomatic approach. Other parties condemned his language, underscoring the deepening rift between the governing coalition and opposition over fiscal policy, transparency and security matters.

Together, the snapshots show a rapid escalation of political confrontations surrounding the 2026 budget, with accusations of fiscal irresponsibility, alleged corruption, and disputes over foreign‑military presence fueling broader parliamentary tension.