Economy & Budget: Bulgaria’s Fiscal Council says the May budget deficit hit the highest level in 20 years, with the consolidated deficit expected at EUR 2.5 bln (2% of GDP) and a May monthly gap of EUR 0.74 bln. Public Finance Politics: The opposition Democratic Bulgaria disputes the PM’s claim that an excessive deficit procedure is inevitable, pointing to official stats and EU-adjusted figures, while GERB-UDF rejects budget-extension measures including scrapping COVID pension supplements and cutting party subsidies. Energy & Diplomacy: PM Radev warned that Middle East unrest will further destabilize Europe via supply chains and energy prices, as he met Lebanon’s defence minister; Foreign Minister Petrova confirmed Bulgaria backs Moldova’s EU path. Law & Oversight: Parliament advanced Water Act amendments on second reading, and approved oil-sector regulation changes tied to supervisory powers over critical infrastructure. Rule of Law: Justice Minister Naydenov vowed to defend free, transparent elections for Supreme Judicial Council members from the professional quota. Local & Business: Mega Group plans a new plant in Dimitrovgrad’s Beles Industrial Zone, aiming to employ up to 175 workers. Culture & Commemoration: Hundreds climbed Okolchitsa Peak to honour Hristo Botev and freedom fighters; similar wreath-laying events took place in Budapest and Okayama. Sports: Bulgaria’s football and volleyball items were mixed, while US ambassador nomination to Sofia and a Bulgaria-China trade push also made headlines.