This week in Bulgaria
Bulgaria celebrated DARA's victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, with several municipalities expressing interest in hosting the 2027 event. Domestically, news included the appointment of Kostadin Geshev as Deputy Minister of Environment and Democratic Bulgaria's proposal for fully machine-based voting. The country also focused on high school matriculation exams and assurances from the Social Minister regarding timely social payments.
About Bulgaria
Bulgaria, a Balkan nation, is celebrated for its rich historical tapestry, diverse landscapes ranging from the majestic Rila Mountains to the Black Sea coast, and a vibrant cultural heritage. While its European Union membership provides a framework for democratic institutions, the media landscape navigates challenges of ownership concentration and political influence, often leading to self-censorship. This dynamic environment shapes public discourse, necessitating a critical approach to news consumption.
Visiting Bulgaria
Media landscape
The Bulgarian press is legally free, yet it contends with significant ownership concentration and political influence, which can lead to self-censorship and a degradation of media products. EU membership offers some protective measures, but economic pressures persist.
To gain a comprehensive understanding, consult a variety of sources, including independent digital outlets, to balance perspectives influenced by concentrated ownership.
Sources we track 1
New Bulgarian Government Seeks to Open 'New Page' in China Relations
- Bulgaria's new government aims to strengthen cooperation with China, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Investment and Industry Aleksandar Pulev. - Pulev stated during a Bul…
Russia advertises support roles in China and Belarus for Ukraine conflict
- Russian recruitment ads have appeared on the Avito website seeking individuals for service in "the rear of the special military operation" in China and Belarus. - The ads, noted by a Russian publica…
Scientists discover exoplanets with magnetic fields, similar to Earth
- Scientists have found strong evidence of magnetic fields on seven large, hot exoplanets. - This discovery provides the most compelling proof to date that planets outside our solar system possess mag…
Documents Reveal Lord Mandelson's Negative Views on Keir Starmer
- Newly released British documents reveal Lord Peter Mandelson's negative views on Keir Starmer. - The documents, over 1,000 pages long, pertain to Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US. …
Russian Ambassador thanks Bulgaria for rapid visa processing for athletes and fans
- Russia's ambassador to Bulgaria, Eleonora Mitrofanova, thanked Bulgarian officials for expediting visa processing. - Hundreds of Bulgarian visas were issued rapidly for Russian athletes and fans att…
Saving Bulgarian Jews: A blend of civil activism and state action
- Despite a failed deportation attempt on March 10, 1943, civil protests in Plovdiv and Sofia intensified in late May 1943 to protect Bulgaria's Jewish population. - The most significant mass protest …
Anton Kutev does not rule out tax changes by year-end
- Bulgarian Progressive Bulgaria party member Anton Kutev suggested potential tax changes by year-end. - Kutev stated the party aims to avoid drastic fiscal measures and maintain the budget without sh…
Biliana Savova: We need a special place for young people with multiple sclerosis
- Biliana Savova advocates for a dedicated hostel for young people with multiple sclerosis in Bulgaria. - She highlights the increasing prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases among younger populatio…
Fuel price surge returns consumption to 2025 levels
- Fuel consumption in Bulgaria has returned to 2025 levels due to price increases over recent months. - Despite rising prices, significant reductions in fuel consumption have not been observed. - This…
Bulgarian Feature 'One Thought' Urges Skepticism on Public Procurement, Rolex Collection
- A Bulgarian publication features a segment called "One Thought" (Едно наум) that requires critical reading. - The segment aims to present information that should be viewed with skepticism, including…
Sofia Reforms Tram Network, Launches Two New Lines
- Sofia's municipal council approved a plan to optimize 10 tram lines. - The goal is to eliminate "package traffic" by introducing synchronized schedules with equal intervals. - Line 1 will be extende…
Euronews owner buys United Group's media assets in 5 Balkan countries
- United Group has sold its media assets in five Balkan countries to Alpac Capital, the owner of Euronews. - The deal involves media outlets in Bulgaria, Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia. - T…
Bulgaria advances bill for new anti-corruption commission
- Bulgaria's interim legal committee has advanced a bill to establish a new anti-corruption commission. - The commission will consist of five members, with its formation method detailed in the legisla…
Ukraine Set to Begin EU Membership Negotiations
- The European Commission is expected to propose the formal start of membership negotiations with Ukraine on June 16. - This development follows a phone call between European Commission President Ursu…
Bilhen Sali, Creator of 'Slovoto,' Featured on 'Word of the Week' Podcast
- Bilhen Sali, the creator of "Slovoto," is featured in the "Word of the Week" podcast. - "Slovoto" is a special edition released alongside the 100th issue of a publication. - The podcast segment "GEN…
Pokémon Takes Over Prestigious Museum in Unique Exhibition
- A prestigious museum is showcasing an exhibition featuring Pokémon. - The exhibition explores the cultural phenomenon of Pokémon and its global impact. - The display includes various aspects of the …
Following GERB, Ruling Coalition Proposes Treasury Bonds for Citizens
- Lawmakers from the "We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria" coalition have proposed changes to the State Debt Act. - The proposed amendments would allow citizens to purchase government securit…
US shifts Balkans approach: 'No' to nation-building, 'yes' to gas via North Macedonia
- The United States has shifted its approach to the Balkans, moving away from nation-building efforts towards a focus on energy security, specifically through gas pipelines via North Macedonia. - A ne…
Former Danish queen reportedly fell shortly after hospital discharge
- The article is a placeholder for content related to a former Danish queen's health issues. - It appears to be a Czech news site (iDNES.cz) discussing advertising options and user consent for persona…
Russia urges foreigners to leave Kyiv ahead of planned strikes on military-industrial complex
- Russia has warned foreigners, including diplomats, to leave Kyiv due to impending strikes on military-industrial complex facilities. - The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that strikes would target e…
U.S. Arms Deliveries to Taiwan Halted
- The United States has halted arms sales to Taiwan, according to a high-ranking U.S. military official. - Lawmakers in both Washington and Taipei are reportedly concerned about President Donald Trump…
End of Cheap Gas for Armenia After EU Entry, Says Kremlin
- The Kremlin stated that Armenia will lose preferential cooperation terms with Russia upon joining the EU. - Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warned that integration into the EU would alter existin…
Ombudsman finds ruin in psychiatric hospital after 1.4 million lev renovation
- Ombudsman Velislava Deleva discovered deplorable conditions in the Sevlievo psychiatric hospital during an inspection on May 11, 2026. - The inspection revealed dampness, mold, and peeling plaster i…
Michelin-Starred Chefs Share Kitchen Secrets as Sofia Awaits Audit
- Three renowned chefs with Michelin-starred experience shared insights into the inner workings of such restaurants. - The discussion occurred as Sofia anticipates a preliminary audit from the culinar…
On the Brink: Festival Funding Becomes Eurovision 2027's First Test for Bulgaria
- Bulgaria faces the challenge of organizing Eurovision 2027, requiring extensive planning and coordination. - The initial test for this capacity is not the venue selection, but rather the funding of …
Trump Administration Dealt Heavy Blow to U.S. Diplomacy, Investigation Finds
- A Reuters investigation details how the Trump administration significantly weakened U.S. diplomacy. - The report highlights a reduction in information flow and personnel within the State Department.…
Week begins with sunshine in Bulgaria
- The week in Bulgaria begins with sunny weather in the morning, gradually giving way to cumulus clouds in the afternoon. - Brief, localized showers are possible in mountainous areas later in the day.…
First Star Wars Film in 7 Years Opens Strong at Box Office
- The latest Star Wars film, "The Mandalorian & Grogu," generated strong opening weekend box office revenue. - Disney projects $102 million from the U.S. and Canada, and $165 million globally. - This …
100,000 rally in Belgrade demanding Vučić's resignation; clashes reported
- Approximately 100,000 people gathered in Belgrade on Saturday, demanding the resignation of President Aleksandar Vučić. - The protest, organized by opposition parties, is part of a wave of demonstra…
Bulgaria's Forgotten Question: When Will the State Ask 'Where Does the Money Come From?'
- Bulgaria's institutions have a history of forgetting the origin of funds, a problem rooted in political dependencies. - This issue dates back to the disappearance of millions from the accounts of so…
EU must prepare for fuel crisis if Ukraine, Iran conflicts escalate
- Escalation of wars in Ukraine and Iran could lead to a fuel crisis and price hikes in the EU, including Bulgaria. - The EU must prepare for potential disruptions and rising costs. - Bulgaria's budge…
21 Bulgarian mayors untrained in using national early warning system
- 21 Bulgarian municipal mayors still lack training and authorization to use the BG-Alert early warning system. - These mayors have not claimed their right to use the system, preventing them from oper…
40,000 Ordered to Evacuate in California Amid Chemical Explosion Risk
- Approximately 40,000 people were ordered to evacuate in Orange County, California, due to a chemical hazard. - A storage tank containing methyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical used in plastics, b…
Discover Greece Beyond the Crowds: An Alternative Island Escape
- Despite the influx of Bulgarian tourists to Greece, the southern neighbor still offers less-crowded destinations. - Lesbos, the third-largest Greek island, is highlighted as one such alternative, al…
Who's the Best of the Best: What Cities Aspiring to Host Eurovision 2027 Offer
- Following DARA's victory at the Eurovision music contest, four Bulgarian municipalities have expressed interest in hosting the 2027 edition of the competition. - The article implies a surge of enthu…
Vitosha Park Confirms Wolf Presence, Abundant Herbivores
- Vitosha Nature Park in Bulgaria is inhabited by several wolves, in addition to bears. - The park also hosts a significant population of wild herbivores and wild boars. - This information comes from …
Radev appoints Kostadin Geshev as Deputy Minister of Environment
- Kostadin Yordanov Geshev has been appointed as the Deputy Minister of Environment and Water in Bulgaria. - The appointment was made by Prime Minister Rumen Radev via a decree. - Details regarding th…
Founder of the 'Slow Food' Movement Dies at 76
- Carlo Petrini, the Italian founder of the international "slow food" movement, has died at the age of 76. - Petrini's organization announced his passing, marking the end of an era for a movement that…
Ebola risk in DR Congo raised to 'very high' by WHO
- The risk of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been elevated to 'very high' by the World Health Organization (WHO). - This decision follows reports of approximately 177 deaths and n…
USA changes the Green Card application regime
- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new process for individuals within the United States seeking to apply for lawful permanent resident status. - This policy upda…
Democratic Bulgaria Proposes Fully Machine-Based Voting
- The "Democratic Bulgaria" coalition has proposed amendments to the Election Code. - The proposed changes mandate fully machine-based voting for all types of elections. - The coalition also seeks to …
Another Former PM Enters French Presidential Race as Center Fractures
- Former French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency. - Attal's entry into the race further fragments the centrist political landscape. - His candidac…
Minister Awaits Prosecutor's Word on Closing 'Cosmos' School
- Bulgaria's Minister of Education, Prof. Georgi Valchev, is awaiting a prosecutor's decision on whether to close the "Cosmos" private school. - The school is linked to the case of 15-year-old Aleksan…
Michelin Lessons: Andre Tokev
- Three renowned chefs with Michelin-starred experience shared insights into the inner workings of such restaurants. - The discussion occurred as Sofia awaits a preliminary audit from the culinary gui…
Today's Important Events in Bulgaria and Around the World
- High school graduates in Bulgaria are taking their second mandatory matriculation exam today, focusing on a specialized subject. - Students graduating from vocational high schools will also be takin…
Graduates Take Their Second Mandatory Matriculation Exam
- Over 24,000 Bulgarian high school students are taking their second mandatory matriculation exam today, which is in a specialized subject. - English is the most popular choice among these students, w…
Quick News (May 22)
- Dnevnik presents "Quick News," a real-time update service for significant events in Bulgaria and worldwide. - The content is curated by an editorial team. - This feature aims to keep readers informe…
High school proposes signal jamming devices during final exams
- A high school in Haskovo proposed installing signal jamming devices around schools during final exams. - This suggestion follows an incident where 11 graduating students were caught cheating on a Bu…
France to offer limited aid for fuel price impact
- France will continue to offer limited relief measures for consumers struggling with high fuel prices. - Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced an additional support package totaling €710 million…
Ukraine Reports Deadliest Strike on Russian Positions Since War's Start
- Ukraine claims to have conducted one of its deadliest attacks on Russian positions since the war began. - The target was reportedly a concentration of Russian forces in occupied territories. - Russi…
Turkish Court Overturns Opposition Leader Election, Restores Former Chief
- A Turkish court has overturned the 2024 congress decision that elected Özgür Özel as the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP). - The court's ruling effectively reinstates Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu…
Social Minister: All Social Payments Will Be Transferred on Time
- Bulgaria's Minister of Labor and Social Policy, Natalia Efremova, assured that all social payments will be disbursed on time. - Efremova made the statement during a session of the temporary parliame…
War in Iran Will 'Eat Up' at Least a Year of European Economy; Prices Keep Rising
- The conflict in the Middle East is expected to slow down the European economy for at least a year. - This slowdown adds to existing challenges of low growth and declining competitiveness. - The Euro…
Ivan Kostov: Government's Toughest Corruption Fights Will Be Internal
- Former Bulgarian Prime Minister Ivan Kostov believes the current government is not prepared for a thorough judicial reform. - Kostov cited the proposed amendments to the Judicial System Act by "We C…
Landslide Near Pamporovo Remains Active, Bulgarian Minister Reports
- A landslide between Smolyan and Pamporovo remains active, according to the Regional Development Minister. - Minister Ivan Shishkov briefed parliament on the actions taken and future plans for recove…
Bulgarian Oncology Conference Focuses on New Therapies, Precise Diagnostics, and Personalized Patient Care
- Over 200 medical specialists from across Bulgaria convened for a significant oncology conference. - The event featured 55 speakers, including 16 international experts from various European countries…
Russia Deploys More Nuclear Weapons to Belarus Amid Joint Drills
- Russia has delivered additional nuclear weapons to Belarus as part of joint military exercises. - The Belarusian Ministry of Defense confirmed that nuclear munitions were transported to field storag…
When 200 journalists shout Bangaranga, and there isn't a single Bulgarian flag
- Bulgaria achieved its first-ever victory at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Bangaranga" by DARA. - The article notes the significant media presence and excitement surrounding the event, w…
Photo Gallery: The Ecological Crisis of Escobar's 'Cocaine Hippos'
- A photo gallery documents the ecological crisis caused by Pablo Escobar's "cocaine hippos." - The article highlights the environmental challenges posed by these invasive animals in Colombia.
Key events in Bulgaria and around the world today
- The article provides a daily rundown of significant events scheduled to take place in Bulgaria and around the world. - Today's agenda includes a parliamentary hearing where the Regional Minister Iva…
Quick News (May 21)
- "Quick News" is a daily feature from Dnevnik providing real-time updates on important events in Bulgaria and around the world. - The content is curated by the Dnevnik editorial team. - The report in…
Hristo Grozev Comments on Austrian's Conviction for Spying for Russians
- Bulgarian investigative journalist Hristo Grozev commented on the conviction of an Austrian national for spying for Russia. - Grozev described the verdict as a "good day for the Austrian judicial sy…
Bulgaria to Accelerate Innovation, Remove Business Obstacles
- Bulgaria's government is launching an administrative reform to support businesses. - A new coordination unit will be established to aid business development. - The initiative aims to accelerate inno…
UK Retailers, Central Bank Criticize Government's Price Cap Idea
- British retailers and the central bank are criticizing the government's idea of imposing mandatory price caps on supermarkets. - The government has ruled out mandatory price caps but is in discussio…
Chicks Hatched from Artificial Eggs by Company 'Reviving' Extinct Species
- Colossal Biosciences, a startup backed by celebrities, has made progress in its species de-extinction project. - The company has developed an artificial incubator for bird embryos, intended for use …
Bulgarian MP: Tackling High Prices Will Take Years, Entire Mandate
- Bulgarian society anticipates measures against high prices, but the process is expected to take years. - A Progressive Bulgaria party member stated the party understands the issues and has proposed …
US and Israel wanted to install former Iranian president, but everything went wrong
- The United States and Israel allegedly planned to install a former Iranian president into power. - These plans were reportedly part of initial strategies for regime change at the beginning of the wa…
Bulgarian Police Seize Cannabis, Fentanyl, and Other Drugs in Operation
- Bulgarian authorities reported seizing 30 cannabis plants and other narcotics during an operation that began a week ago. - The seized substances include 1.78 kg of fentanyl, 8 kg of marijuana, amphe…
UAE completes 50% of new pipeline bypassing Strait of Hormuz
- The UAE has completed 50% of a new pipeline designed to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. - The project is on track for completion by 2025, according to ADNOC CEO Sultan al-Jaber. - This strategic infras…
EU Health Agency Assesses Ebola Risk in Europe as "Very Low"
- The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk of Ebola spreading within the EU as "very low." - The agency stated that Ebola is transmitted only through direct …
Thousands of Ancient Coins and Artifacts Seized in Turkish Truck at Bulgarian Border
- Thousands of ancient coins and artifacts were discovered in a Turkish truck at the Kapitan Andreevo border crossing. - Customs officials in Svilengrad identified the find as smuggling. - Over 4,600 …
Croatia Offers 100 Euros for Culture to 18-Year-Olds
- Croatia is launching a pilot project to give 18-year-olds 100 euros for cultural activities. - The initiative, by the Ministry of Culture and Media and the Financial Agency, aims to encourage cultur…
Teodora Tochkova Sees 'Discrediting' of Magistrates in Analysis of Their Assets
- Teodora Tochkova perceives the analysis of magistrates' assets as an attempt to discredit them. - The Bulgarian Institute for Legal Initiatives (BILI) presented an analysis of assets declared by mag…
Vilnius Residents Seek Shelter as Drone from Belarus Triggers Air Raid Alert
- Vilnius residents spent an hour in underground shelters due to an air raid alert triggered by a drone from Belarus. - The alert was activated by the Lithuanian military after detecting the drone hea…
Court Awards 15,000 Euros to Bilyana Petrova for Year-Long Arrest
- A court has awarded 15,000 euros in damages to Bilyana Petrova for non-pecuniary harm. - Petrova, a former deputy mayor, was detained for one year on charges of soliciting a bribe. - The damages are…
Yordan Yovkov's 'The Song of the Wheels' Featured on Bulgarian Matriculation Exam
- The Bulgarian national exam in Bulgarian language and literature featured an essay question on Yordan Yovkov's short story "The Song of the Wheels." - Students could choose between analyzing the sto…
Thailand Tightens Visa Policy for Tourists
- Thailand has significantly tightened its visa policy for tourists, including those from Bulgaria. - The visa-free stay period has been reduced from 60 days to 30 days for citizens of over 90 countri…
EU Ready for Ratification of Trade Deal with US, But With Deadline and Conditions
- The European Union has finalized the text of its trade agreement with the United States. - This move overcomes a major hurdle for the ratification of the document. - The agreement must be ratified b…
US Confirms Reduced Military Presence in Poland
- The US will not deploy 4,000 troops to Poland as previously planned. - Vice President J.D. Vance stated the decision is a
Photo gallery: Weddings during wartime
- A photo gallery showcases weddings taking place amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. - The images capture moments of love and commitment against the backdrop of war. - The collection highlights t…
Bulgaria's Parliament to Discuss Penal Code Amendments and State Budget
- Bulgaria's Parliament will discuss numerous amendments to the Penal Procedure Code, including some proposed by the interim government. - The agenda also includes debates on the state budget and othe…
G7 blames Russia for the war in Ukraine, but diverges on sanctions
- Finance ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have unanimously blamed Russia for the war in Ukraine. - However, the ministers failed to reach an agreement on implementing further sanctions …
Sofia Celebrates Eurovision 2026 Triumph with Grand Concert by Dara
- Sofia celebrated the "Eurovision 2026" triumph with a large concert featuring artist Dara. - The event marked the city's recognition of the Eurovision victory. - Details about the concert and its si…
We Must Learn to Celebrate Talent: Georgi Gospodinov on DARA's Success
- Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov expressed joy over the success of DARA, a Bulgarian artist. - Gospodinov stated that in the initial days following DARA's achievement, Bulgarians will learn to app…
Trump's Peace Council Urgently Seeks Funds Amid Gaza Plan Shortfall
- A report from Donald Trump's Peace Council indicates a pressing need for funds to bridge the gap between promised and allocated resources for Gaza's recovery plan. - The organization's findings high…
Radev Appoints Lilia Stoyanova as Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policy
- Lilia Petrova Stoyanova has been appointed as the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policy. - The appointment was made by Prime Minister Rumen Radev via an order. - No additional information about…
Complaint Halts National Children's Hospital Tender at Last Minute
- A large public tender for the design of the long-awaited National Children's Hospital in Bulgaria has been halted. - The tender was stopped on May 19, the last day for bid submissions, due to a comp…
Former Spanish PM Zapatero Investigated for Influence Peddling and Money Laundering
- A former Spanish Prime Minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, is under investigation by the High Court for alleged influence peddling and money laundering. - This investigation adds to a series of …
Løkke: Troels Lund Poulsen's Government Bid is a 'Test Balloon That Cannot Fly'
- Prime Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen of the Moderates party views Troels Lund Poulsen's attempt to form a minority government as a "test balloon that cannot fly." - Løkke expressed surprise that Poul…
Former Spanish PM Zapatero Investigated – A Blow to Sanchez
- Former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero is under investigation for alleged influence peddling and related crimes. - A Spanish court confirmed the investigation into the former soc…
Part of "Mladost" 4 to be without water for 12 hours tomorrow (map)
- A section of "Mladost" 4 in Sofia will experience a 12-hour water outage tomorrow. - The interruption is scheduled from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. - This is due to the uncovering of a street water main o…
Minimum pension to increase by 7.8% from July, majority proposes
- The ruling majority in Bulgaria has proposed a 7.8% increase in the minimum pension, effective July 1. - This proposed increase would raise the minimum pension from approximately €322.37 to a new am…
US expands sanctions against Cuba, its president threatens 'carnage' in case of American attack
- The United States has expanded its sanctions against Cuba, targeting the country's intelligence services and nine high-ranking officials. - This move comes as Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel issue…
'Grandma's Kitchen': Bulgarian Vegetarianism's Salad Days and Political Stirrings in the Early 20th Century (Podcast)
- The Bulgarian vegetarian movement flourished in the early 20th century, with the publication of two pioneering vegetarian cookbooks. - These cookbooks played a significant role in popularizing salad…
China Prepares for New Putin Visit
- China is preparing for a new visit from Russian President Vladimir Putin. - Putin has met with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping over 40 times. - The visit follows an exchange of "congratulatory letter…
Sofia to Host Special Concert Celebrating DARA's Success, Featuring Eurovision Winner
- Sofia is organizing a special concert to celebrate the success of DARA. - The event will take place at "Knyaz Aleksandar I" Square starting at 6 PM. - The Eurovision winner is also scheduled to perf…
'Progressive Bulgaria' Proposes New Parliamentary Rules, Drawing Opposition Criticism
- Bulgaria's "Progressive Bulgaria" party is proposing new parliamentary regulations that would limit opposition activities. - Key proposed changes include reducing speaking time for deputies and comp…
US Media Reports Second Israeli Military Base Established in Iraq
- A US media report claims Israel has established two military posts in Iraq during the war against Iran. - The preparation for these posts reportedly took over a year. - This information follows earl…
Bulgarian Business Presents Key Demands for Judicial Reform and EU Integration
- Bulgarian business groups have presented key demands to the government regarding judicial reform and European integration. - The community of bilateral trade chambers in Bulgaria has expressed readi…
Kosovo is Serbia, this unites our efforts and is not up for negotiation, students announced
- Students in Belgrade have published a joint position on Kosovo, a week before a planned large protest. - This declaration comes as President Aleksandar Vučić is expected to announce potential early …