Bulgaria's former pro-Putin president Radev takes strong lead in election, preliminary results show

The progressive party of former President Rumen Radev has secured a commanding lead in Bulgaria's parliamentary elections, according to preliminary results. With over a third of votes counted, Radev's party is polling at 44.59%, signaling a significant shift in the country's political landscape.

Radev, a figure known for his eurosceptic stance and opposition to military support for Ukraine, has positioned himself as a key player in Bulgarian politics. His decision to step down from the presidency to participate in the parliamentary elections underscores the high stakes of this vote, which comes in the wake of widespread protests that led to the collapse of the previous government.

This election result is being closely watched both domestically and internationally, as it could shape Bulgaria's future foreign policy, particularly its relationship with Russia and its stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The strong showing for Radev's party suggests a potential move away from the pro-European Union policies of the outgoing administration.