Politics

Deadly Black Sea Drone Strikes Loom Over Bulgaria’s Presidential Vote

AI SUMMARY

Bulgarians are voting in a presidential election shaped by security concerns over recent deadly drone attacks on merchant ships in the Black Sea.

Bulgarians are voting in presidential elections featuring a total of 27 candidates.
The leading candidates are acting President Iliana Iotova, 61, and former caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov, 50.
Recent drone attacks on merchant ships in the Black Sea resulted in the deaths of around 20 international seafarers.
Prime Minister Rumen Radev stated that the maritime situation benefits Russia, although Bulgaria has not directly blamed Russia for the attacks.
Gyurov has strong support from pro-Western parties and favors aiding Ukraine, while Iotova calls for a diplomatic resolution.
Current polls show Iotova leading with 41% support compared to Gyurov's 28%.
If no candidate secures a majority, a runoff election will be held on November 1.
Voting takes place from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.