Moldova in talks to buy Lukoil assets amid US sanctions
Illustrative photo: Moldova may buy Lukoil assets (Getty Images)
Moldovan officials are in talks with Lukoil over the possible purchase of the company’s facilities at Chisinau Airport, said Chisinau International Airport director Sergiu Spoială, according to Reuters.
"We have issued a proposal in the name of the airport, and talks are now underway. We are looking at several scenarios, and I believe things are going well. Matters are at an advanced stage, but it is too early to say anything. I think we will have results over the next three days," Spoială said.
He clarified that although Lukoil remains the only supplier of aviation fuel to Chisinau Airport, he does not see any risks related to that.
Meanwhile, the Moldovan government said Lukoil had been offered to sell its airport infrastructure, including the aviation fuel depot.
The Ministry of Energy stated it is seeking the most advantageous deal possible.
Earlier, Moldova’s Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu said Lukoil would have to cease operations in the country starting November 21 in line with US sanctions.
US sanctions
The United States imposed sanctions on two Russian oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft, several weeks ago.
In response, several European countries where Lukoil operates refineries began looking for solutions to avoid shutdowns.
In particular, Bulgaria’s parliament allowed the government to appoint new management for Lukoil’s refinery, which could later be nationalized and sold to new owners.
Meanwhile, Romania is seeking a waiver from the US to delay the sanctions' implementation.
