The Minister of Energy, Dorin Junghietu, has provided clarifications regarding the status of Lukoil’s operations in the Republic of Moldova, following the latest international sanctions imposed on the oil group by the United States of America.
According to the minister, Lukoil will no longer be able to operate in Moldova starting November 21, 2025, due to the blocking of its accounts and assets and the U.S. Treasury’s refusal to authorize the sale of the company’s assets to Gunvor.
In Moldova, Lukoil operates a large network of fuel stations, supplies fuel to the domestic market, and manages the only aviation fuel storage facility at Chișinău International Airport. This infrastructure is critical for ensuring the supply of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, including for air transport.
Minister Junghietu detailed the steps taken by the Government and the Council for the Examination of Investments of Importance to State Security (CEIISS) to protect national interests and maintain energy stability:
- Rejected Lukoil’s proposal to sell its airport infrastructure, as the potential buyer did not meet national security requirements.
- Submitted an official offer for the state to purchase Lukoil’s airport fuel depot, ensuring national control over strategic energy infrastructure. The deadline for this acquisition is November 17, to avoid supply disruptions after November 21.
- Aligned Moldova with the U.S. sanctions, while simultaneously requesting a temporary exemption from the United States to allow Lukoil to continue operations until a long-term solution is secured.
- Engaged in active negotiations with Bulgaria and Romania, including Rompetrol, to ensure alternative supplies of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene.
Minister Junghietu reassured the public that the government will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves and underscored that all actions are focused on safeguarding national interests and ensuring Moldova’s energy security.