Burgas, Bulgaria – Former U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) chief and ex-governor of Arkansas, Asa Hutchinson, has voiced concerns over reports that Russian fuel is being smuggled through the private Burgas port “Europe.”
In an interview with the Bulgarian newspaper 24 Chasa, Hutchinson linked the port to ongoing sanctions evasion, urging Bulgarian authorities to take immediate action against money laundering operations.
Hutchinson, a Republican politician and former 2024 U.S. presidential candidate, highlighted the potential violations of U.S. sanctions and the role of shadow fleets in circumventing international restrictions on Russian fuel exports.
“There is concrete evidence that the port has been involved in smuggling operations,” he stated, emphasizing that Bulgaria’s anti-money laundering services must address the issue with professionalism and urgency.
Port Owner Tied to Criminal Allegations
The Burgas port “Europe” is owned by Nikolay Filipov Filipov, who is known in criminal circles as “Nicky Mitnitcharya” (translated as “the customs officer”).
Hutchinson’s disclosure has intensified scrutiny on Filipov, whose extensive business dealings and alleged connections to illicit activities have raised concerns among law enforcement agencies.
In 2023, Bulgarian authorities conducted a special operation at the port, leading to the arrest of four individuals suspected of involvement in fuel smuggling.
Despite these developments, Filipov has consistently denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations “fabricated.” He further claimed that a senior police officer in Burgas had orchestrated the accusations due to a personal financial dispute over a house construction loan.
Hutchinson Calls for Stronger Enforcement
Hutchinson, who led the DEA from 2001 to 2003 under President George W. Bush before serving as Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, stressed the importance of international cooperation in tackling financial crimes.
“Bulgaria must act decisively to ensure compliance with global sanctions,” he stated, warning that failure to do so could have diplomatic consequences.
The former governor’s remarks place increased pressure on Bulgaria’s State Anti-Money Laundering Agency and the Ministry of Internal Affairs to intensify investigations.
“Authorities need to be proactive in identifying and dismantling smuggling networks, especially when international sanctions are at stake,” Hutchinson added.
Ongoing Concerns Over Russian Fuel Smuggling
The issue of Russian fuel smuggling through Bulgarian ports remains a critical concern for both local and international authorities.
Since the start of the Ukraine war, Western sanctions have targeted Russia’s oil exports, prompting Moscow to rely on shadow fleets—unregistered or repurposed vessels that operate outside formal shipping regulations—to move fuel covertly.
While some arrests have been made, enforcement remains challenging due to alleged corruption and complex criminal networks operating within Bulgaria’s maritime industry.
Hutchinson’s recent statements serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for strengthened oversight and transparency in the country’s ports.
As investigations continue, all eyes remain on Bulgarian authorities to determine whether further actions will be taken against Filipov and other suspected players in the smuggling operations.
The developments could have significant implications for Bulgaria’s standing in international anti-money laundering efforts and its relations with key Western allies.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members