Bulgarians Vote for President Amid Ukraine War Divisions

Bulgarians voted for president Sunday, weeks after drone attacks on merchant ships off the country's Black Sea coast.

• 41% back Iotova and 28% back Gyurov in Alpha Research polling.
• 27 candidates are on the ballot.
• About two dozen international seafarers likely died in the drone strikes.
• 6.6 million voters are registered; turnout is expected below 40%.

Why it matters: The presidency is largely ceremonial, but a direct mandate gives it political weight. The president leads the armed forces and can veto laws.

• The president also signs international treaties and appoints ambassadors.
• Voters also face steep energy price increases and rising inflation.

How 5 sources split on this story

Where they split: The candidates disagree on whether Bulgaria should keep backing Ukraine or press for a negotiated end to the war.

What’s next: A first-round win requires an outright majority and turnout above 50%. Neither is expected, pointing to a Nov. 1 run-off.

• Bulgaria has sought allied help to strengthen its maritime security after the strikes.
• Who carried out the drone strikes? Bulgaria's government has not formally named a culprit.
• Will the strikes shift voters toward either candidate's position on Ukraine?