Bulgaria Links Defense Modernization with Economic Stimulus
Bulgaria is moving forward with plans to modernize its armed forces
A video circulating on Facebook shows a scene just before Kiril Petkov, leader of the political party "We Continue the Change" and former Prime Minister of Bulgaria, received his indictment from the prosecutor's office. In the footage, Petkov is seen exchanging words with a man, who reassures him: "Everything is taken care of, don't worry, it's been discussed. Keep your head up, we've got things figured out with your father... just so you know." Petkov smiles and addresses the man as "Sensei," and they share a long embrace. The man is later identified as Sensei Yavor Dyankov, a karateka with connections to the security services, like Petkov's father, Petko.
The exchange occurs at the entrance to the prosecutor's office, with several individuals gathered nearby in support of Petkov. Dyankov’s voice is heard through Petkov’s microphone, which he is using for a live broadcast on Facebook.
Petkov, who is now officially a defendant, was given a "signature procedure" measure by the supervising prosecutor in the case, Angel Kanev. The case involves Petkov's actions in connection with the arrest of former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and GERB members Vladislav Goranov, and Sevdalina Arnaudova. Despite the indictment, Petkov remains confident, stating, "I am not worried in any way. I know that I have not committed any crime." He also conveyed this to the prosecutor and emphasized that he has yet to review the evidence against him. Petkov remains optimistic that the forthcoming trial will bring full clarity on how the judicial system and state prosecution operate.
Sources:
Borislav Sarafov will continue to serve as acting Prosecutor General beyond July 21, despite the expiration of the six-month legal term for temporary appointments to the top posts in the judiciary
The investigation targeting Varna Mayor Blagomir Kotsev was condemned as politically motivated during a press conference held today in the coastal city
Kostadin Kostadinov, leader of "Revival", and Ivelin Mihaylov from "Greatness" both suggested that MP Delyan Peevski - who is under US "Magnitsky" sanctions - played a role in the recent arrest of Varna mayor Blagomir Kotsev
From the floor of the National Assembly, GERB MP Toma Bykov delivered a formal declaration on behalf of his parliamentary group, welcoming Bulgaria’s upcoming accession to the eurozone
Speaking from the rostrum of the National Assembly, “Revival” party leader Kostadin Kostadinov delivered a sharply critical speech in response to the European Parliament and the European Commission
Varna Mayor Blagomir Kotsev was detained by police late Tuesday night following actions connected to an investigation
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