Sofia, 20 January 2026 (dpa/MIA) - Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, considered to be pro-Russian, has resigned ahead of a snap parliamentary election to immerse himself in the election campaign as a politician.

Radev announced the move on Monday evening in a "final address" to the nation, which was broadcast live on television in Bulgaria.

"Tomorrow I will submit my resignation from the office of president of the Republic of Bulgaria," said the 62-year-old reserve major general.

The Constitutional Court is to decide on Radev's resignation – in terms of whether this is his genuine will. Vice President Iliana Iotova will take over the presidential office, Radev said.

Radev's and Iotova's second five-year term was supposed to end in January 2027. Both were originally elected in 2016 as candidates for the Socialists.

As head of state, Radev repeatedly advocated for the fight against corruption and mafia practices.

Fight against mafia

"The political class has betrayed the hopes of Bulgarians through compromises with the mafia," Radev said in explaining his shift to party politics.

Radev spoke of a "societal consensus against the mafia," which he said was expressed during protest waves in Bulgaria.

"A new social contract is necessary," Radev stressed. He announced a "fight for the future of the fatherland." However, he did not clarify how he intends to run in the election campaign.

According to political scientists, a new political force led by Radev is likely to significantly change the Bulgarian party landscape. Their entry into parliament is considered certain, which may mean that smaller parties will no longer clear the required 4% hurdle.

Bulgaria has no regular government - but euro now national currency

Radev's resignation comes amid a new government crisis in the EU and NATO country.

Incoming President Iotova has to appoint an interim Cabinet, according to the constitution. This will conduct government affairs until a regular government is formed after the snap parliamentary election - expected within weeks.

Iotova is also to determine the election date for the new election. This would be the eighth parliamentary election in Bulgaria within five years.

The pro-Western minority government of conservatives, socialists and populists was toppled in December 2025 by massive protests against corruption and ineffective justice.

Bulgaria introduced the euro as its currency at the beginning of the year - however, without a budget for 2026. In light of the government crisis, the state budget for the past year was initially extended by three months.

Photo: BTA