Bulgarian PM Resigns Amid Nationwide Protests Over Economic Policies and Corruption

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has resigned following weeks of nationwide protests over his government's economic policies and perceived failure to tackle corruption. Zhelyazkov announced his resignation in a televised statement on Thursday, just minutes before parliament was set to vote on a no-confidence motion. The resignation comes as Bulgaria prepares to join the euro zone on January 1. Zhelyazkov stated that the decision was made after discussions with his coalition, emphasizing the need to meet societal expectations. Thousands of Bulgarians have taken to the streets in Sofia and other cities, expressing frustration with endemic graft and economic mismanagement. The government recently withdrew its 2026 budget plan due to the protests. President Rumen Radev has called for new elections, urging lawmakers to heed the voice of the people.