Bulgarians Protest Euro Adoption: Thousands Rally Against Abandoning the Lev

Bulgaria's Euro Transition Faces Backlash: Thousands Protest in Sofia Against Abandoning the Lev Sofia, Bulgaria – Thousands of Bulgarians took to the streets of Sofia and other major cities today to protest the country's impending transition to the Euro. The demonstrations highlight deep-seated anxieties about the economic consequences of abandoning the Lev, the national currency, scheduled for adoption in early 2026. The protests, which blocked major intersections in the capital, saw participants waving Bulgarian flags and carrying signs expressing their opposition. One protestor, interviewed by Realitatea Plus, stated, "We want to protect our children, because the Lev is our currency that keeps us strong." President Rumen Radev has voiced his support for the demonstrations and called for a referendum on the issue, citing concerns about a lack of preparation and the potential for increased poverty. The government, however, maintains its commitment to joining the Eurozone, believing it will boost the Bulgarian economy. The coming months will be crucial as Bulgaria awaits assessments from the European Central Bank and the European Commission before finalizing the transition. The outcome of this situation remains uncertain, but the scale of the protests underscores the significant challenges facing the country as it navigates this critical economic shift.