Boyko Noev criticizes Spetsov pick for Lukoil

Former Defense Minister Boyko Noev criticized the government’s handling of American sanctions relief for the Lukoil refinery in Burgas, characterizing the administration as weak and comparing Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov unfavorably to Plamen Oresharski. The security expert told bTV that authorities had known about potential sanctions for a year but acted only when forced, rushing legislation through parliamentary committees without proper democratic review or opposition consultation.

Noev questioned the appointment of National Revenue Agency Director Rumen Spetsov as special manager, noting that legal requirements mandate five years of fuel trade experience that Spetsov lacks. He referenced pending prosecutorial investigations into tax violations and suggested Spetsov represents a politically dependent figure selected through opaque processes.

Washington granted Bulgaria a six-month exemption following Spetsov’s installation, allowing continued refinery operations while cabinet disagreements expose management deficiencies, according to Noev.