Romania and Bulgaria Seek Exemption of Russian Company’s Refineries from US Sanctions

Romania and Bulgaria have approached the United States with a request to remove the refineries owned by the Russian company “Lukoil” located on their territories from the sanctions list. These facilities are under threat of restrictions that will come into effect on November 21, 2025, concerning the companies “Lukoil” and “Rosneft.”

This is reported by AgroReview

Attempts to Protect Energy Security

According to reports, both countries are striving to maintain stability in their national fuel markets. In Bulgaria, the parliament recently passed a law allowing the government to take control of the management of the “Lukoil” refinery in Burgas. If necessary, the government will have the right to even nationalize the enterprise to ensure uninterrupted gasoline supply to citizens.

Romania, for its part, is considering the possibility of obtaining a temporary exemption for its refinery, which is also owned by “Lukoil.” In the event of failure, the Romanian government may resort to nationalizing the plant to prevent fuel shortages.

The Importance of Russian Refineries for the Region

The refinery in Burgas supplies up to 80% of Bulgaria’s fuel needs. Estimates suggest that its shutdown could lead to serious economic consequences for the country. A similar situation is observed in Romania, where the Russian refinery covers about 20% of domestic fuel consumption. The cessation of its operations could cause market shortages, price increases, and halt the export of Romanian fuel to Moldova.

According to energy market analyst Ana Otilia Nutu, “if Moldova suffers significantly, it will become a huge PR opportunity for Russia.”

Experts note that, theoretically, exemptions from sanctions for refineries that have come under state management could be possible. At the same time, European countries express concern over the deep influence of Russian energy companies on strategically important sectors of their economies.