Bulgaria to veto EU sanctions against the Russian Patriarch
Bulgaria has officially stated its position regarding future European sanctions against Russia. Our country is prepared to exercise its right to a veto if the Russian Patriarch Kirill is included in the list of sanctioned individuals.
President Rumen Radev emphasized that the decision to impose a veto is dictated by the need to protect certain principles and avoid interference in religious institutions. According to the Bulgarian authorities, the inclusion of clergy in sanctions lists could lead to serious diplomatic and religious complications.
This position of Bulgaria is part of a broader debate within the European Union regarding measures against Russia due to the war in Ukraine. While most member states support strict sanctions, the Bulgarian government insists on a careful selection of the individuals who fall under the restrictions.
The issue remains a subject of discussion in Brussels, where a consensus is being sought among all European Union countries. It is expected that in the coming weeks it will become clear whether European partners will comply with Sofia's position or if a compromise will need to be found.
The topic is of great importance to Bulgaria's foreign policy, as it shows how the country balances its commitments to the European Union with its own national priorities.