Bulgaria’s Annual Inflation Hits 5.2% in November, Prices Rise Modestly in Key Sectors
In November 2025, Bulgaria recorded an annual inflation rate of 5.2 percent, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI)
As tensions escalate in Eastern Europe, Bulgarian political analyst Assoc. Iskren Ivanov sheds light on the potential consequences of a Russian victory in the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to Ivanov, Russia's new defense doctrines indicate a scenario where Romania and Bulgaria could be called upon to serve as buffers if NATO withdraws to its pre-2004 borders. However, assurances from key NATO members, including the USA and Great Britain, stand as a bulwark against such a development, Ivanov emphasized in comments to NOVA NEWS.
Highlighting the significance of recent diplomatic engagements, Ivanov underscored the pivotal nature of British Prime Minister David Cameron's visit to Sofia. The repercussions of this visit, Ivanov suggested, are multi-faceted, with implications for European security and geopolitical dynamics. Central to Cameron's agenda, Ivanov noted, is the reinforcement of British influence in Europe, particularly in containing Russian expansionism on the continent.
BNT journalist Nikolay Krastev echoed Ivanov's sentiments, emphasizing the gravity of Cameron's visit, evidenced by the high-level meetings with Bulgarian officials. Krastev pointed to discussions beyond migration, signaling the seriousness of the topics broached. Notably, concerns over security threats posed by illegal migration routes, particularly those affecting the English Channel, were addressed. Krastev highlighted London's vigilance in monitoring such routes and its condemnation of Putin's actions as "wrong" and "disastrous."
Looking ahead, Krastev outlined the implications for European security, especially in the context of Bulgaria's impending accession to Schengen. While acknowledging progress, Krastev stressed the need for enhanced border control measures, particularly amidst concerns over radicalized individuals within migrant flows. The prospect of Bulgaria's accession presents an opportunity to bolster border security, Krastev noted, amid fears of potential terrorist threats looming over Europe.
Bulgaria spent around 2 billion euros on defense in 2024
The Foreign Ministers of Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey: Georg Georgiev, Oana Coișu, and Hakan Fidan - convened a trilateral meeting focused on Black Sea security and support for Ukraine
Bulgaria has formally submitted a request to the European Commission for EUR 3.2 billion in funding under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism
Greece, Bulgaria, and Cyprus are planning to strengthen their defense capabilities with the addition of drones, as part of a joint initiative under a European security program
Former Bulgarian Defense Minister Todor Tagarev has warned that if Ukraine were to collapse, Bulgaria could be next in line
Military Minister Atanas Zapryanov highlighted that the relocation will save the state approximately 300 million leva
Bulgaria's Strategic Role in the EU's Drone Wall Defense Initiative
When Politics Means Violence