From NATO Ally to Russian Orbit? Ker-Lindsay Examines Bulgaria’s Trajectory

Professor James Ker-Lindsay is one of the UK’s most respected voices on the geopolitics of Southeast Europe, with a career that bridges academia, policy, and public engagement. A Senior Visiting Fellow at the London School of Economics’ European Institute and a Research Associate at the University of Oxford’s Centre for International Studies, he has spent decades analysing the politics, conflicts, and security dynamics of the Balkans, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. His expertise has informed governments, international organisations, and media outlets seeking clarity on some of the world’s most complex regional disputes.

Beyond the lecture hall, Ker-Lindsay has built a significant global following through his YouTube channel, where he distils intricate geopolitical developments into clear, accessible, and analytically rigorous explanations. His videos are valued for their balance, depth, and ability to connect current events to historical and strategic contexts—qualities that have made him a trusted source for policymakers, journalists, and engaged citizens alike.

In his latest video, Is Bulgaria Turning Towards Russia?, Ker-Lindsay examines a question with profound implications for European security. Bulgaria, a NATO and EU member with deep historical, cultural, and energy ties to Russia, occupies a pivotal position in the Black Sea region. Shifts in its political orientation could reverberate across the alliance and reshape regional power balances. Drawing on his deep knowledge of Balkan politics and international relations, Ker-Lindsay unpacks the domestic, geopolitical, and historical factors at play—offering viewers a nuanced framework for understanding whether Sofia’s trajectory signals a strategic pivot or a temporary recalibration.