Bulgaria's Iotova wins presidential election

Interim president Iliana Iotova, who is seen as close to Russia, won the second round of Bulgaria's presidential election, according to exit polls. She received between 57.4 and 58.2 percent of the votes, significantly more than her pro-Western rival Andrey Gyurov, who got between 38.6 and 39.6 percent.

Low voter turnout in Bulgaria's election

The participation rate in the election was very low, at 29 percent, according to the electoral commission. This low turnout has raised questions about the level of public engagement in the political process.

Iotova's pro-Russia stance and campaign

Iotova presented herself during her campaign as the "candidate of peace" and stated that dialogue with Vladimir Putin was needed to end the war in Ukraine. She emphasized that she conducted a positive campaign without making attacks or using divisive rhetoric.

Iotova's political background

The former journalist and 62-year-old European Parliament member held the position of vice-president for nine years under the presidency of Roumen Radev, who was close to Russia. Radev resigned in January to run for the position of Prime Minister.

Humanitarian ceasefire in Kherson ends

The "exceptional humanitarian ceasefire" in the Kherson region, which allowed the evacuation of civilians from the Russian-occupied city of Olechky, ended Sunday evening, according to the BBC. The ceasefire had been in place since earlier in the week.

Ceasefire respected but fighting continues

Although the ceasefire—the longest between Ukraine and Russia since the beginning of the war in February 2022—was respected, fighting continued elsewhere, notes the British broadcaster. The ceasefire was initially limited to Olechky but was later extended to the entire Kherson region.

Olechky's difficult situation

Olechky, which has been occupied by Russia since the early days of the invasion, was caught between the Dnieper River and Russian forces, with access roads mined and targeted by drone strikes. The ceasefire allowed residents, who faced severe shortages of food, water, and electricity, to evacuate if they wished.

Emotional reunions during ceasefire

Touching scenes occurred during the reunions of families who had not seen each other for years, according to British media. The ceasefire provided a rare opportunity for people to reunite after being separated by the war.

Kimi Antonelli becomes youngest F1 champion

In Formula 1, the Italian Kimi Antonelli became the youngest world champion at 20 years and 68 days. By securing third place in Sunday's Mexican Grand Prix driving his Mercedes, Antonelli was crowned world champion.

Historic achievement for Antonelli

Antonelli became the youngest driver in history to win the title—and the first Italian since Alberto Ascari in 1953. His performance this season was marked by "flashes of genius," according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Antonelli's podium and celebration

In Mexico, Antonelli shared the podium with the Dutch winner Max Verstappen (Red Bull) and the Englishman Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari), respectively four-time and seven-time world champions. He was carried in triumph, wrapped in an Italian flag.

Antonelli reflects on his historic season

"This season has really been incredible and sharing this title with Max and Lewis makes this moment even more beautiful," said the young prodigy, expressing his pride in his achievement.