Human Rights & Religion: The European Court of Human Rights upheld Jehovah’s Witnesses’ right to do door-to-door preaching in Bulgaria, ruling that such activity is central to religious identity and can’t be blocked by broad local rules. Culture & Heritage: A restored memorial plaque of Mihai Eminescu was unveiled in front of the Romanian Embassy in Sofia, with officials calling it cultural diplomacy and suggesting new Sofia tributes. Arts & Community: Haskovo’s Ivan Dimov Drama and Puppet Theatre reopened after a major energy-efficiency renovation, cutting expected energy use by 72% while restoring heritage details. Sports & Inclusion: Sofia hosted the opening of the BAUHAUS Down Syndrome World Championships Bulgaria 2026, with President Iliana Iotova under whose patronage it runs until June 19. International Culture: Vietnam showcased its cultural identity at Sofia’s Asian Festival, expanding it into a two-day programme with performances, food and crafts. EU Politics: EU and Ukraine formally opened accession talks after Hungary’s delay, with language-protection changes also reported as Zelensky signed a law excluding Russian from the European Charter of Languages. Migration Debate: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Europe about migrant arrivals as an “invasion” as the EU prepares tougher migration reforms. LGBTQ+ Visibility: Pride marches in Romania and Bulgaria drew thousands, alongside counter-rallies backed by conservative and religious groups. Travel & Lifestyle: A new overnight train route is set to connect Bucharest, Sofia and Istanbul, reviving direct rail travel after a long pause.