Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced the resignation of his government on Thursday, bringing an abrupt end to weeks of mounting political pressure. The decision follows widespread demonstrations across the country, where protesters accused the government of failing to address corruption and mishandling economic policy.
A drone view shows protesters demonstrating outside the parliament during an anti-government rally, in Sofia, Bulgaria, December 10, 2025. REUTERS/Spasiyana Sergieva
Zhelyazkov delivered the announcement in a televised address, speaking only minutes before lawmakers were set to vote on a no-confidence motion that threatened to topple his administration. The vote was expected to be a critical test of the government’s stability, coming after escalating public frustration over rising living costs and what demonstrators described as a lack of meaningful reform.
People carry placards as they demonstrate outside the parliament during an anti-government rally, in Sofia, Bulgaria, December 10, 2025. REUTERS/Spasiyana Sergieva
The resignation also comes at a pivotal moment for Bulgaria, which is preparing to enter the Eurozone on 1 January. The transition had been a central focus of recent political debate, with critics arguing that the government’s economic management was inadequate in the lead-up to the shift.
People use the torches on their phones as they demonstrate outside the parliament during an anti-government rally, in Sofia, Bulgaria, December 10, 2025. REUTERS/Stoyan Nenov
