Bulgaria to Hold Eighth Election Amid Political Turmoil
Bulgaria is set to hold its eighth parliamentary election in five years, with former president Rumen Radev emerging as the frontrunner for his newly established party, Progressive Bulgaria. This election follows the collapse of a coalition government in December 2025, amid ongoing political instability characterized by public discontent and corruption allegations. Analysts suggest that Radev's platform, which emphasizes anti-corruption reforms and reducing inequality, could reshape the political landscape, although challenges remain in forming a stable governing coalition.
IEA Warns Europe Faces Jet Fuel Shortage Crisis
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that Europe may have only six weeks of jet fuel supplies left due to disruptions caused by the ongoing war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for approximately 40% of the continent's jet fuel imports. Airlines, including Ryanair, are already considering flight cancellations and route reductions as jet fuel prices have surged to nearly $200 a barrel, doubling since the conflict began. The IEA's director, Fatih Birol, indicated that if the situation does not improve, flight cancellations could begin as early as May.
Croatians Rally for Higher Wages and Pensions Amid Inflation
Thousands of Croatians protested in Zagreb on April 18, 2026, demanding higher wages and pensions as inflation reached 4.89 percent, the highest in the euro-zone. Organized by major unions and pensioners' associations, the rally highlighted the disparity between high food prices and low average wages, with unions calling for the minimum wage to rise to 1,100 euros and average pensions to increase to 1,100 euros from 700 euros. Protesters carried banners urging the government to address the financial struggles faced by workers and pensioners.
