Politico: Bulgaria seeks to avoid US sanctions against Lukoil

Bulgaria is considering asking the United States to exempt the country from the new American sanctions against the Russian oil company Lukoil, Politico reports, citing sources.

Sofia fears that the restrictive measures could lead to a serious fuel shortage and social unrest within the country. The Bulgarian authorities have already requested consultations with Washington to discuss possible options.

Particular concern centres on the Lukoil Neftochim refinery in the city of Burgas, which supplies up to 80% of Bulgaria’s domestic fuel needs. The government believes that shutting down the refinery could trigger price hikes and protests, as well as strengthen the position of pro-Russian President Rumen Radev, who, according to reports, is considering forming a new political party.

U.S. sanctions against Rosneft and Lukoil are set to take effect on November 21.

By Khagan Isayev