Bulgaria initiates government formation with Rumen Radev as prime minister

Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova has officially tasked Rumen Radev with forming a new government following his party's victory in the April 19 parliamentary elections. The Progressive Bulgaria party, led by the former president and fighter pilot, secured 44.6% of the vote, allowing it to govern without a coalition. Radev resigned from the presidency in January after the previous government collapsed following widespread anti-corruption protests in December. The cabinet formation follows a period of significant political instability that saw eight elections within five years. Radev presented his proposed cabinet, which is scheduled for a parliamentary vote of confidence on May 8. The new administration faces urgent tasks, including passing a budget, establishing a debt ceiling to secure pensions and salaries, and managing the recovery of lost EU funds. Radev is known for his Eurosceptic views and opposition to further military aid for Ukraine.