Yotova and Gyurov Clash on Ukraine and Energy in Bulgaria Presidential Debate
Ilijana Jotova and Andrej Gjurov clashed over foreign policy, past governance, and the role of the presidency during their sole televised debate on Bulgarian National Television ahead of the November 1 runoff election.
Botova Accuses Gjurov of Unauthorized Ukraine Agreement
Йотова accused Gjurov of signing a 10-year agreement with Ukraine without a mandate from the National Assembly, claiming the arrangement could allow Bulgarian military personnel to be sent there. Gjurov countered that the arrangement is merely a framework document intended to open the door for Bulgaria’s participation in the reconstruction of Ukraine, insisting that any resulting contracts must be approved by parliament and that няма начин български войници да бъдат пратени в Украйна
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Gjurov also raised questions regarding the “Боташ” deal with the Turkish energy company. Йотова responded that the contract was concluded because former Prime Minister Kiril Petkov and his colleague Asen Vasilev cut off gas supplies from Russia overnight, and she further criticized Gjurov over the Ukrainian agreement.
Presidential Powers and Campaign Accusations
Discussing the scope of executive and presidential authority, Gjurov stated that the presidency can act as a counterweight when power is concentrated, whereas Jotova argued that the позорната домова книга трябва да бъде премахната
so the head of state has a genuine choice when assuming responsibility.
The exchange also covered accusations regarding pardons and campaign tactics, with Илияна Йотова: Изградихте цялата си кампания върху лъжи. Трябва да не познавате процедурите на помилванията, за да твърдите такова нещо. Йотова maintained that all pardon documents were provided to the prosecution and that her decisions were made entirely on humanitarian and medical grounds. Gjurov maintained that his campaign remained direct and open, emphasizing that politicians bear full responsibility for how they apply their powers.