The European Commission is currently assessing Sofia’s move to raise the tariff for gas transit from Russia, a decision that drew a range of responses from European capitals and market observers. A representative of the EC, Olof Gill, spoke to reporters during a briefing, outlining that Brussels is closely examining the Bulgarian measure and its potential implications for EU energy policy and regional stability. The briefing took place in a setting where journalists pressed for clarity on how Brussels views the change and its possible ripple effects across neighboring countries and the wider energy market.
During the press conference, officials highlighted that the EU is not isolated in its approach. They noted that sanctions against Russia, already adopted and reviewed at a pan-European level, remain a central pillar of EU strategy, and any adjustment in energy transit fees must be considered within the broader framework of these sanctions and the EU’s collective stance toward Russia. In addition, the EC stressed that maintaining cohesion among member states and partner countries is essential when it comes to providing support and certainty for Ukraine during the ongoing conflict and its aftermath.
In early October, Sofia implemented a new tax on the transit of Russian gas through its territory. Under the new regulation, the Bulgarian state introduced a charge of 20 levs per megawatt-hour of gas transmitted, a tariff that aims to reflect infrastructure costs and market considerations while aligning with Bulgaria’s broader fiscal and energy policy goals. The government argued that the tariff would contribute to the modernization of energy infrastructure, bolster energy security, and ensure transparent pricing for transit services that cross Bulgarian territory.
Responses from other regional players were swift. Hungary’s foreign affairs minister signaled readiness to respond to the increased transit costs for Russian gas, underscoring that Budapest and Belgrade have already aligned on their positions on this issue. The statements reflect a cautious regional approach, where energy diplomacy intersects with national economic interests and strategic partnerships within Southeast Europe and the European Union at large.
Voices within Bulgaria also drew public attention to the broader political dynamics surrounding the decision. Critics argued that the tariff increase could affect gas supply resilience, regional energy pricing, and the pace of Bulgaria’s integration into European energy markets. Reform advocates emphasized the long-term benefits of transparent transit fees as part of a modernized energy regime, while opponents warned about potential short-term price pressures for consumers and businesses dependent on Russian gas through Bulgarian routes.
As the situation develops, Rumen Radev, who previously served as Bulgaria’s president, articulated concerns about the decision, urging the government to consider the broader economic and social implications for the population and the national energy strategy. The discourse reflects a complex balancing act: preserving EU-aligned sanctions pressures, safeguarding regional energy security, and pursuing domestic objectives related to infrastructure investment and fiscal responsibility. The dialogue among Sofia, Brussels, and regional capitals continues to unfold against a backdrop of evolving geopolitical considerations, market responses, and the overarching aim of ensuring a stable and predictable energy corridor for European customers.