Bulgaria's Radev wins parliamentary majority

The victory marks a significant turn toward a more pragmatic, though controversial, relationship with Russia.

Radev, a former fighter pilot and vocal critic of military aid to Ukraine, has pledged to tackle systemic corruption and stabilize the nation's economy.

European leaders have expressed a cautious willingness to work with the new government while monitoring its adherence to EU standards.

The decisive mandate may finally allow Bulgaria to move past the cycle of eight elections in five years that has hindered its development.