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Bulgaria Adopts Euro Amid Protests and Political Turmoil

1/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bulgaria adopted the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st eurozone member.
The move followed nearly two decades in the EU and sparked protests and political instability.
President Rumen Radev said the euro completes EU integration but criticized the lack of a referendum.
Inflation concerns persist amid anti-corruption protests as Bulgaria holds its eighth election in five years.

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Story summary

Bulgaria adopted the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st eurozone member.
The move followed nearly two decades in the EU and sparked protests and political instability.
President Rumen Radev said the euro completes EU integration but criticized the lack of a referendum.
Inflation concerns persist amid anti-corruption protests as Bulgaria holds its eighth election in five years.