Dimitar Glavchev

Rule Changes

Willing to serve as caretaker prime minister; previously held role in 2024

Bulgaria has had five presidents in its 33-year post-communist history. None resigned before completing their term—until Rumen Radev stepped down on January 23, 2026. His departure elevated Vice President Iliana Iotova to become Bulgaria's first female head of state, a historic milestone overshadowed by the deepest political instability the country has faced since the fall of communism.

Updated May 23

Rule Changes

Led caretaker government through euro adoption

Bulgaria became the 21st eurozone member on January 1, 2026, replacing the lev at a fixed rate of 1.95583 per euro. Euro banknotes and coins began circulating at midnight, ending nearly three decades under a currency board.

Updated May 19