Bulgaria Joins Eurozone Amid Political Crisis and Protests

Bulgaria officially joined the Eurozone as the poorest member state of the EU on January 1, 2026, hoping the currency stimulates growth.The transition occurred amid significant public concern over inflation and political instability following the resignation of Rosen Zheliazkov.Christine Lagarde defended the move following Eurobarometer polls showing public divide while officials warned that Russia is using disinformation.