Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev announced on June 18 that his government intends to seek the removal of Patriarch Kirill, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, from the European Union's next sanctions package against Russia. Radev's remarks came ahead of an EU summit where leaders are expected to discuss further sanctions on Russia and continued support for Ukraine.
Radev stated that Bulgaria's historical ties to the Russian Orthodox Church, which he credited with contributing to the nation's liberation from Ottoman rule, influenced his position. He clarified that his interest was in the church itself, not necessarily Patriarch Kirill personally.
The Bulgarian prime minister also indicated that Bulgaria would not permit sanctions that could harm its economy. He specifically mentioned the possibility of seeking an exclusion for the Lukoil Neftohim Burgas refinery from any sanctions package.
Radev rejected comparisons to Hungary's previous obstruction of EU decisions, affirming Bulgaria's support for Ukraine's EU membership negotiations and reforms. He also stated he would meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later on June 18.
Patriarch Kirill, whose secular name is Vladimir Gundyayev, has publicly supported Russia's war in Ukraine and is considered a close ally of the Kremlin. His potential inclusion in sanctions has been a point of contention, with Hungary previously shielding him.
