POLITICO: New Bulgarian PM Radev Under Scrutiny as EU Braces for Sanctions Debate on Russia

European Council in Brussels opens amid expectations that Bulgaria’s new Prime Minister Rumen Radev could play a more assertive role in shaping EU debates on Ukraine, the budget and foreign policy, Politico reports.

Radev, formerly president, is now attending his first European Council summit as head of government after what the publication describes as a political reset at home, including the creation of his own party and a decisive election win following a period of domestic deadlock. Although he had previously taken part in EU-level discussions due to constitutional arrangements that limited caretaker governments, this is his first appearance in that capacity as prime minister.

His arrival is seen in Brussels as potentially significant for the EU’s internal balance on Ukraine policy. Politico recalls that Radev previously stated that Kyiv was “doomed” in its war with Russia and opposed further EU military assistance or what he described as “pouring more weapons” into Ukraine. He has also criticized EU backing for Ukraine’s counteroffensive, arguing it resulted in large-scale casualties.

The article also references a public exchange between Radev and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in 2023, which drew attention in Brussels and among critics who viewed Radev’s position as closer to Moscow. According to the report, this placed him politically alongside leaders such as Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has likewise been skeptical of Western military support for Ukraine and has pursued closer ties with Russia.

Diplomatic sources in Brussels cited by Politico suggest concern that Bulgaria could become a difficult actor in upcoming negotiations on additional sanctions against Russia. The EU is preparing its 21st sanctions package, but one diplomat noted that Sofia is already taking a firm line, while the specific objections have not been fully clarified.

At the same time, another EU diplomat questioned whether Radev would have the capacity or intention to take on a blocking role similar to that previously associated with Hungary’s Viktor Orban in the European Council.

Politico also highlights three other new leaders attending the summit: Hungary’s Péter Magyar, described as a pro-European conservative focused on restoring ties with Brussels and unlocking frozen EU funds while maintaining elements of previous policy on migration and energy; Slovenia’s Janez Janša, portrayed as a returning and divisive figure with a hard domestic stance, support for Ukraine and potential disputes on issues including sanctions policy toward Israel; and Latvia’s Andris Kulbergs, who comes to office after a political crisis and is expected to prioritize security, defense and strengthening the EU’s eastern flank, while maintaining firm support for Ukraine.

Source: POLITICO