Kostadinov criticizes Bulgaria’s response to Lukoil sanctions

Vazrazhdane party leader Kostadin Kostadinov criticized Bulgarian authorities for failing to secure American sanctions relief for the Lukoil refinery, contrasting government inaction with Hungary’s successful diplomatic mission that obtained comprehensive exemptions. He suggested three potential strategies, including defying restrictions as Sofia does with sanctioned oligarch Delyan Peevski, requesting formal derogations, or initiating negotiations with Moscow, though he dismissed current leadership as lacking independence and direction.

A Vazrazhdane delegation will travel to Russia to attend a BRICS-European Union cooperation forum featuring officials from multiple governments and political movements. Kostadinov stated the group intends to represent Bulgarian national interests alongside representatives from Germany, Luxembourg, Slovakia, Serbia and other countries working to prevent continental conflict escalation. He acknowledged uncertainty regarding the Russian willingness to engage with opposition figures despite Kremlin statements distinguishing between hostile administrations and civilian populations.