EU's new sanctions package is at risk, but not because of Hungary
Illustrative photo: new sanctions package is at risk due to Bulgaria (Getty Images)
Bulgaria plans to veto the new EU sanctions package against Russia. Sofia explained that the decision is based on two reasons, stated Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev, according to Reuters.
According to him, the new restrictions could harm Bulgaria’s economy. In addition, the government does not agree with sanctions against Russian Patriarch Kirill.
Radev noted that the measures also pose serious risks to the operations of the company Lukoil, one of the largest fuel suppliers in Bulgaria, which operates the country’s only oil refinery in Burgas. The Bulgarian government wants the company to be excluded from the sanctions list.
He also warned that the restrictions could disrupt supplies of fertilizers and spare parts for Sofia’s metro system.
Position on the church and Ukraine
A separate reason for the veto is Sofia’s disagreement with sanctions against Patriarch Kirill.
"This war has already moved beyond the trenches; it extends beyond economics and energy, we can see its impact on culture and sports, and now it only remains for it to engulf religion as well," Radev said.
Despite blocking the sanctions package, he assured that Bulgaria will not obstruct other EU joint decisions, including supporting Ukraine’s EU accession negotiations.
Reuters recalled that earlier this week, the EU expanded its sanctions list, adding 34 individuals and 47 entities.
The measures target Russia’s military-industrial complex, its shadow fleet, and individuals involved in interference in Western politics. Among those sanctioned is a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Meanwhile, the European Union is working on its 21st sanctions package, aimed at key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, financial services, trade, crypto assets, and the fishing industry.
Proposed measures also include a travel ban to EU countries for former Russian military personnel who took part in the war against Ukraine. At the same time, additional personal sanctions are being prepared against around 80 more Russian companies and individuals.
