The ongoing dispute over Ukraine has caused a deep division within Orthodoxy, which has significantly affected the election of the head of the faithful in Bulgaria. This decision reflects the direction that the church will take and highlights the tension between different churches aligning with Constantinople, Moscow, or seeking a middle ground.
The rift between Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and Kirill of Moscow continues to shape Orthodoxy today. The recent recognition of an independent Ukrainian church by Bartholomew five years ago further exacerbated their strained relationship. The division within Orthodoxy is not just spiritual but also political, as these churches play a significant role in national identity in Eastern and Southeastern Europe.
The election of Metropolitan Daniil as the new patriarch in Bulgaria signals a potential shift in allegiances from Moscow to Constantinople. While he has shown support for Kremlin policies in the past, his election can be seen as a success for Moscow’s influence within Bulgarian Orthodoxy. However, other factors were also at play during this election, such as Bulgaria’s ties with Russia evolving after its invasion of Ukraine, leading to changes in public opinion and political stances within Bulgaria.
Despite this change in leadership, the country’s political landscape remains uncertain due to failed attempts to form a government following recent elections.