Vazrazhdane, the party leading the protests, had warned earlier of being 'ready to take extreme measures' regarding their opposition to euro adoption.

Protesters claimed police used excessive force, including tear gas, leading to injuries among demonstrators and arrests of party MPs.

Despite the unrest, Prime Minister Rossen Zhelyazkov affirmed the government's commitment to adopting the euro by 2026.

The Lukovmarsh, a torchlight procession commemorating Hristo Lukov, a controversial figure linked to Nazi Germany, is scheduled to take place.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the violence during the protests, stating that such actions are unacceptable in Europe.

In Sofia, Bulgarian nationalists protested against the government's plans to join the eurozone, resulting in clashes with police.

The Sofia Municipality had previously banned the Lukovmarsh due to its far-right associations, but a court overturned this ban, allowing the event to proceed.

Economists argue that adopting the euro could benefit Bulgaria by attracting foreign investment and improving its credit rating.

Kostadin Kostadinov, leader of Vazrazhdane, emphasized the need for a referendum on preserving the Bulgarian currency, the lev, citing significant public support.

The Bulgarian government condemned the vandalism and violence, asserting that such actions contradict the principles of the rule of law.

Emergency medical teams were deployed, and by early afternoon, gendarmerie forces were sent to help control the escalating situation.

Public opinion in Bulgaria remains divided on euro adoption, with a recent poll showing 57% against joining the eurozone.