Bulgaria held the second round of its presidential election on January 1, with exit polls indicating an advantage for incumbent President Iliana Yotova. She was backed by 52.5% of respondents, while former acting prime minister Andrey Gyurov received 43.4%. About 4% chose neither candidate.

Radio Svoboda reported the exit-poll figures on Sunday, November 1. The first round took place on October 25, when none of the 27 contenders secured a majority. Turnout was a record-low 23%.

Russia’s war against Ukraine and security risks in the Black Sea dominated the campaign. Four commercial vessels were attacked by drones near Bulgaria’s coast in October, according to the report. Two sank, some crew members died or remained missing, and Sofia sought NATO assistance to strengthen maritime security.

Yotova has favored dialogue with Moscow and opposed military aid for Ukraine. Gyurov, by contrast, campaigned for continued support for Kyiv and closer Bulgarian ties with the European Union and NATO. Although the presidency is largely ceremonial, the office carries veto powers and command of the armed forces.