Sofia Hosts Christmas Book Fair and 13th International Literary Festival
Sofia is set to welcome the annual Christmas Book Fair and the 13th International Literary Festival from December 9 to 14, 2025
In a unified expression of grief and condemnation, citizens and visitors of Sofia gathered in front of the Russian Embassy to commemorate the life and legacy of Alexei Navalny, a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Led by former Minister of Defense Nikolay Nenchev, Valentin Simeonov, the Atlantic Council of Bulgaria, and advocacy groups "Russia's murderous policy for Bulgaria" and "Liberation," the candlelight vigil served as a poignant tribute to Navalny's unwavering dedication to democracy and human rights.

Amidst a solemn atmosphere, mourners laid floral tributes, illuminated the night with flickering candles, and inscribed poignant messages of remembrance, including the stark label "murderers." Despite a heightened police presence, the demonstration remained peaceful, echoing the sentiments of those gathered who highlighted Navalny's plight as emblematic of broader injustices under Putin's rule.
Traffic briefly halted as chants of "Putin is a murderer," "Glory to Ukraine," and "Russia without Putin" reverberated through the streets, underscoring the global outcry against authoritarianism. A moment of silence, marked by solemn kneeling, paid homage to Navalny's courageous activism and ultimate sacrifice.

Addressing the assembly, a Russian-Bulgarian citizen voiced steadfast determination that Navalny's mission would endure until justice prevailed.
Across continents, similar scenes unfolded, amplifying the resonance of Navalny's legacy. In Berlin, hundreds assembled outside the Russian embassy, chanting defiant slogans against Putin's regime. Similar demonstrations were reported in Vienna, Warsaw, and Vilnius, where crowds gathered to honor Navalny's memory and denounce tyranny.
From London to Yerevan, Madrid to Istanbul, and Buenos Aires, a wave of solidarity swept through global capitals, reflecting the indomitable spirit of those united in the fight for freedom and justice.
As the world mourns Navalny's untimely passing, his legacy serves as a beacon of hope for all who strive for a brighter, more democratic future.
Large-scale protests are taking place this evening in Sofia and in more than 25 major cities across Bulgaria.
A large yellow sofa, dubbed “Divan Divan”, has been placed at Largo in Sofia to collect messages from citizens for Slavi Trifonov, leader of the ITN party in the governing coalition.
GERB leader Boyko Borissov announced that he will address issues of resignations and public protests after January 1, emphasizing that until then his focus remains on ensuring Bulgaria’s entry into the eurozone.
Counter-protests organized by “DPS – New Beginning” have begun in over 20 cities across Bulgaria.
The Bulgarian government has approved the draft State Budget Act for 2026 together with the Updated Medium-Term Budget Forecast for 2026–2028, which outlines the fiscal policies, macroeconomic assumptions and investment priorities for the next three years
EU countries will each have to secure guarantees worth billions of euros for the loan to Ukraine funded by frozen Russian assets, Politico’s Brussels edition reports.
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