Bulgaria’s Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev has presented a comprehensive report to Parliament concerning the investigations into individuals sanctioned under the US Global Magnitsky Act, notably including the politician Delyan Peevski. This report was provided in response to lawmakers’ demands for transparency regarding the ongoing probes. It encompasses detailed flight reservations and travel records spanning from 2023 to June 2026 for those under investigation. Authorities have clarified that the information is relevant to current investigations and does not impose any limitations on future enforcement actions.
The central focus of the investigation is to determine whether the sanctioned individuals have employed associates, business entities, or other avenues to circumvent international sanctions while still exerting control over their financial assets and business dealings. Bulgarian authorities are actively collaborating with the US Treasury Department to scrutinize potential sanction evasions. These efforts have gained momentum amid allegations surrounding Peevski’s use of private jets and the financial backing of over 180 private flights, prompting questions about their funding sources.
In light of these allegations, authorities are investigating possible connections between Peevski’s private flights, business transactions, and assets linked to the Corpbank case. This scrutiny is part of a broader effort to ensure accountability and transparency in Bulgaria’s political and business sectors. The heightened attention to these issues reflects growing concerns over the integrity of financial operations and the enforcement of international sanctions.
Separately, Bulgaria’s Prosecutor’s Office has initiated inspections into the alleged misuse of passenger reservation (PNR) data, a move prompted by multiple complaints. These inspections aim to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant a formal criminal investigation. The outcome of these inspections could have significant implications for the handling of personal data and the protection of privacy rights in the context of international travel and security.