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Bulgaria to Cut Russian Gas Ties by 2026

9/26/2025

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Bulgaria will end Russian gas transit contracts by 2026 and exit market by 2028, per Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov.
Bulgaria meets gas needs via LNG imports from Greece and Turkey.
Bulgaria has secured LNG supplies from the United States for months.
Zhelyazkov says Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied territories are essential for peace talks.
Hungary relies on Russian energy.

History

Historical Context

In 2009, the European Union's Third Energy Package aimed to liberalize energy markets and reduce reliance on Russian gas. Following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Bulgaria shifted from over 90% dependence on Russian gas to importing liquefied natural gas from Greece and Turkey, securing up to 1.5 billion cubic meters annually. This transition enhances regional energy security amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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Story summary

Bulgaria will end Russian gas transit contracts by 2026 and exit market by 2028, per Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov.
Bulgaria meets gas needs via LNG imports from Greece and Turkey.
Bulgaria has secured LNG supplies from the United States for months.
Zhelyazkov says Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied territories are essential for peace talks.
Hungary relies on Russian energy.

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