Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu explained the situation surrounding the oil terminal at Chisinau International Airport, which Lukoil currently operates, in the context of the government’s decision to return the infrastructure to state control. He made the statements during a program on Moldova 1, according to Bani.md.
Munteanu said Lukoil took over the airport fuel infrastructure in 2005 through a process that raises serious questions. He stated that the company assumed investment obligations at the time of privatization but failed to fulfill them. The prime minister noted that the Prosecutor’s Office and the courts must clarify what happened.
He added that authorities are also reviewing more recent developments, including the period after the United States Treasury imposed sanctions on Lukoil’s parent company. Munteanu said the government examined whether the local subsidiary complied with the sanctions regime and identified additional violations.
According to the prime minister, Lukoil Moldova informed authorities that it could not meet the conditions imposed by the sanctions. When the government identified risks, it intervened to protect state interests.
Munteanu criticized the fact that a strategic asset such as the airport fuel infrastructure ended up under a private monopoly. He stressed that, regardless of opinions about Lukoil’s activity, the company must comply with national law and international obligations.
Referring to possible compensation claims, the prime minister recalled that the assets were privatized in 2005 for about 10 million lei, a price he described as extremely low even at the time.
Asked about potential lawsuits or reactions from abroad, including from Moscow, Munteanu said the authorities are preparing for all scenarios. He emphasized that the government acts in line with Moldovan legislation and international law and will defend the country’s strategic interests.