Bulgarian European Prosecutor Faces Disciplinary Action Amid Chiren Gas Storage Investigation

Teodora Georgieva, a Bulgarian European Prosecutor, is facing disciplinary proceedings initiated by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) related to investigations into the expansion of the Chiren underground gas storage facility and a separate case involving a port in Varna. The proceedings have led to her suspension from her post and a lack of salary since March 2025.

Investigation into Chiren Gas Storage Expansion

The disciplinary action stems from Georgieva’s involvement in investigations concerning a €78 million grant awarded to Bulgartransgaz for the expansion of the Chiren gas storage facility. The project involved a consortium initially winning the contract, later withdrawing, and Bulgartransgaz subsequently awarding the contract to a second-ranked consortium. Approximately BGN 600 million (approximately €307 million) was disbursed, but the expansion was not completed, resulting in the return of BGN 80 million (approximately €41 million) of European funding to Brussels.

Allegations of Contract Manipulation

Investigations focused on potential irregularities in the contract, specifically allegations that the contract was altered under Georgieva’s scrutiny to allow for a cheaper, but more dangerous, drilling method. This change allegedly resulted in a potential €78 million loss to the European budget. Vladimir Malinov, the executive director of Bulgartransgaz, was summoned for questioning in March 2025 but was unable to attend due to illness.

Concerns Over Witness Intimidation and Security

Prior to her suspension, Georgieva reported that witnesses questioned in the Chiren case had been dismissed from public service and that the Ministry of Internal Affairs had refused to execute a court-ordered search, and seizure. She also raised concerns about potential threats, leading to a request for security protection following the death of her mother in a house fire, which authorities determined was not a result of foul play.

Controversial Video and Allegations of Influence Peddling

A video surfaced in March 2025 depicting Georgieva meeting with Petyo Petrov, a known lobbyist in the judiciary, while she was a judge in the Sofia City Administrative Court and a candidate for the European Prosecutor position. The video, accompanied by claims that it showed a discussion about securing her appointment through improper means, was dismissed by Georgieva as slander.

Current Status and Potential Outcomes

The EPPO has deemed Georgieva “guilty” and is considering potential sanctions, ranging from a reprimand to dismissal. The final decision rests with the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and the European Commission, who can appeal to the Court of Justice of the European Union for a dismissal ruling. If these institutions decline to pursue dismissal, Köveshi’s office will impose a lesser punishment and reinstate Georgieva. As of February 26, 2026, Georgieva remains suspended without pay.

About the Chiren Gas Storage Facility

The Chiren underground gas storage facility, established in 1974, is a crucial component of Bulgaria’s energy infrastructure. Located near Vratsa, it currently has a storage capacity of 550 million cubic meters and is undergoing expansion to reach 1.1 billion cubic meters.