Bulgarian MP Accuses Peevski of Hiding Behind Euro-Atlantic Facade

Deputy Chair of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) and former MP Valentin Tonchev has accused MRF-New Beginning Chairperson Delyan Peevski of wearing a "Euro-Atlantic mask" while acting against those principles. Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Tonchev called on Peevski to return the medal awarded to him by Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada, claiming his recent actions contradict his previous stance on Ukraine, CE Report quotes BTA

Tonchev referenced a November 2024 press release announcing Peevski's medal, presented by Ukrainian Ambassador Olesya Ilashchuk. However, he argued that Peevski is shifting positions due to concerns over potential new sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act, under which he was previously sanctioned in 2021 for alleged corruption.

Earlier on Wednesday, Peevski criticized Bulgaria’s position on Ukraine, calling the country’s neutrality "spinelessness" and advocating for a clearer stance. He also stated that his parliamentary group opposes funding anything outside Bulgaria, arguing that all resources should benefit Bulgarian citizens.

Tonchev countered that Bulgaria's stance on Ukraine should align with the European Council and that peace efforts must include Ukraine and EU mediation. He reiterated that the current administration aims to dismantle "the Peevski model," alleging Peevski's influence across various state institutions.

Peevski, sanctioned by the U.S. in 2021 as an oligarch accused of corruption, is currently challenging the designation in a U.S. court, with his lawyers denying any wrongdoing.