On Wednesday, 28 October 2026, presidential candidate Iliana Iotova and her running mate Kiril Valchev met voters in Pazardzhik, where Iotova pledged to keep Bulgarian troops from fighting in Ukraine and to pursue immediate diplomatic talks to resolve the crisis, according to an BTA report.
In her remarks, Iotova said she would never allow Bulgarian armed forces to leave for Ukraine. She emphasized that the only correct approach to the Ukraine crisis is immediate negotiations and that European security depends on general peace.
Commenting on recent escalations in the Black Sea, she noted the need for international coordination to impose a moratorium on hostilities, sinking of ships, and drone attacks.
Iotova also highlighted the importance of supporting Bulgarian education, culture, and folklore as a way to build a sustainable value system among young people.
“Unlike those who say these are relics of the past, our view is that this patriotism is needed precisely now so that our children can have strong roots, and whatever may happen to them – no matter what storms may befall them – these roots will protect them and give them the self‑confidence of being heirs to a country exceptionally rich in culture and history.”
The BTA report noted that Iotova stressed geopolitical stability, foreign policy balance, and preservation of national identity as key aspects of her campaign. She called for a balanced foreign policy that would protect Bulgaria’s interests while upholding European security standards.
