Political analyst Daniel Smilov says Bulgaria’s new government, led by Prime Minister Rumen Radev, has entered office surrounded by ambiguity over its domestic agenda, relations with the European Union and approach toward Russia.
Writing for Deutsche Welle, Smilov argues that while Radev now holds substantial political power, the composition of his cabinet sends contradictory signals on key strategic issues, including EU membership, support for Ukraine, Russian energy dependence and judicial reform.
He points to the appointment of two vice premiers with apparently opposing geopolitical orientations — one seen as strongly pro-European and another viewed as sympathetic toward Russia — describing the arrangement as politically confusing.
According to Smilov, similar uncertainty surrounds the appointment of Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, previously associated with the ITN party and known for reservations toward former Bulgarian policies on North Macedonia and Ukraine.
The analyst argues that the central question remains whether the new government intends to deepen Bulgaria’s European orientation or pursue a more Russia-friendly line.
He warns that phrases such as making “Bulgaria’s voice heard in Europe” remain vague without clear policy positions on sanctions against Russia, military support for Ukraine or energy dependence on Moscow.
Smilov also questions whether Radev’s promises to dismantle oligarchic influence and the so-called “captured state” will translate into concrete action.
He notes that no clear anti-corruption measures have yet been announced beyond plans for changes in the judiciary and the appointment of a new Supreme Judicial Council and prosecutor general.
According to the analysis, concerns are growing that the new administration could eventually strike political arrangements with figures linked to the old power structure associated with Boyko Borissov and Delyan Peevski.
Smilov says the government will be judged by whether it seriously investigates major scandals such as “The Dwarfs,” “The Notary” and cases linked to businessman Vasil Bozhkov.
“If Radev and his government fail to show they genuinely want to reach the bottom of these scandals, it will quickly become clear that instead of fighting oligarchy, another regrouping is taking place,” Smilov writes.
The commentary also highlights concerns over Bulgaria’s public finances, the pace of public-sector spending and the need for administrative reform.
At the same time, Smilov argues that Radev should avoid presenting himself as a “savior” and instead focus on practical governance and institutional reforms.
The analysis concludes that Bulgaria’s new government now faces a crucial test: whether it will genuinely challenge entrenched power networks or simply adapt them to a new political reality.