Bulgaria became the 21st member of the Eurozone on Thursday, completing a long-sought step in its European integration despite years of political instability and pro-Russian campaigning against the move.
Sofia has failed to form a stable government for nearly five years. Large protests in November led to the collapse of the latest cabinet and raised the prospect of an eighth election in as many years. Allegations of corruption and mismanagement, the absence of a 2026 budget and sustained fear-mongering by pro-Russian forces have all tainted the moment of euro adoption.
“I warmly welcome Bulgaria to the euro family,” said European Central Bank president Christine Lagarde.