Bulgarian Oligarch’s New Charges Linking Him to Russian Mafia Could Shake Political Landscape
New charges have been filed against Bulgarian oligarch Vasil Bozhkov, further linking him to the Russian mafia and potentially shaking the country’s political landscape. Bozhkov, who is already facing accusations of contract killings, extortion, and evading state fees for his gambling business, has now been charged in connection with his association with the late Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin. These charges could have far-reaching implications for political figure Boyko Borissov and could potentially plunge Bulgaria into a fresh political crisis.
Bozhkov made headlines recently when he decided to return to Bulgaria after spending three years in Dubai. He claimed that he wanted to prove his innocence in the court. However, his return has raised more questions than answers. According to Prosecutor Angel Kanev from the Sofia City Prosecutor’s Office, evidence obtained from Bozhkov’s email suggests that he had business relations with Yevgeny Prigozhin and several other Russian citizens who faced sanctions following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, although this information was only recently revealed by the prosecutor.
In addition to the association with the Russian mafia, Bozhkov is also under investigation for tax crimes and money laundering in Moldova. The charges against him include charges of structuring active companies in the gambling industry, with significant financial capital, and registering gambling activities in the Republic of Georgia.
The timing of Bozhkov’s return and the emergence of these new charges couldn’t be more critical for Bulgaria. Bozhkov has claimed that he paid over €30 million in bribes to Boyko Borissov, the leader of the largest Bulgarian party GERB, and the country’s former prime minister, as well as to Borissov’s former finance minister Vladislav Goranov. These allegations, which gained attention earlier this year, have led to the imposition of US sanctions on Goranov, indicating that at least some of Bozhkov’s claims hold merit.
The potential impact of these charges on Bulgaria’s political landscape cannot be underestimated. Boyko Borissov currently wields significant influence behind the government, and without his support, the country could face a fresh political crisis. This development comes at a time when the European Union is relying on pro-European governance in Sofia, adding further complexity to the situation.
Borissov, when asked about Bozhkov’s return, simply commented, The man decided and returned. What more can I comment on? Thousands of passengers come and go. We have given evidence. We have explained everything. The response suggests that Borissov is keen to downplay the significance of Bozhkov’s return and the potential implications it could have on his political standing.
As these new charges unfold and investigations progress, Bulgaria finds itself at a critical juncture. The outcome could have a profound impact on the political stability of the country and its relationship with the European Union. The links between Bulgarian oligarchs, the Russian mafia, and high-level officials have raised serious concerns and questions about corruption and illicit activities. The coming weeks and months will undoubtedly shape Bulgaria’s future and determine whether it can restore trust and integrity in its political system.
