Bulgaria Withdraws Euro-Denominated Budget Amid Widespread Protests

Bulgaria’s government has withdrawn its draft state budget following major street protests. Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered to oppose the financial plan, which was the country's first to be denominated in euros. Protesters alleged the budget was designed to conceal extensive corruption within the government. They argued the shift to the euro currency made the details of state spending less transparent to the public. The withdrawal marks a significant political setback. Bulgaria, a member of the European Union, had planned to adopt the euro in 2025. The government has not yet announced a timeline for presenting a revised budget. The protests highlight ongoing public demand for greater accountability and reform.