Bulgaria has signaled it will oppose the European Union’s 21st package of sanctions against Russia if the measures include Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox Church. This stance was revealed by EU diplomats cited by European Pravda and the Kyiv Post. The potential blockage was discussed during a recent meeting of EU representatives. Bulgaria’s opposition stems from concerns regarding religious freedom and potential repercussions within its own Orthodox community. This creates an impasse in the EU’s efforts to further pressure Russia through sanctions. The move highlights divisions among EU member states regarding the scope and impact of sanctions. Further negotiations will be required to resolve the issue and potentially move forward with the sanctions package.