Bulgarien: Prime Minister justifies opposition to Kirill's inclusion in 21st sanctions package

Bulgaria has openly stated its objections to the European Union regarding the 21st package of sanctions against Russia. The country has requested the removal of three individuals from the sanctions list: Patriarch Kirill, Vagit Alekperov (one of the co-owners of Lukoil), and Iskander Makhmudov, who is connected to a company that supplies spare parts for the capital's metro system.

During a press briefing at the Council of Ministers in Sofia, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev made a statement alongside Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, who was visiting Bulgaria, as reported by Bulgarian National Radio. Radev indicated that the demands had been met, stating, “It has become clear that there is nothing wrong with a member state defending its national interests.” According to Radev, Bulgaria opposed sanctions against Russian Patriarch Kirill because of the belief that religion should not contribute to the escalation of the war in Ukraine.

Regarding Vagit Alekperov, Radev pointed to the risks to Lukoil’s operations in Bulgaria. He also referenced Iskander Makhmudov, mentioning the importance of spare parts for the Sofia Metro, which the Bulgarian Cabinet of Ministers considers a matter of transportation security. “We have always participated in common European decisions, but we regard these three individuals as a matter of our national interest. If our demand is not met, we will not support these sanctions,” Radev stated. In July, Bulgaria withdrew from the Coalition of the Willing. (Quelle: www.risu.ua, 19. September 2026)