Overview
- Politico reports that Sofia has contacted the United States about the process for requesting an exemption or deferral once sanctions take effect on November 21.
- The Lukoil Burgas refinery supplies up to 80% of Bulgaria’s fuel, and officials fear bank pullbacks could force a halt that triggers shortages and protests.
- Parliament approved a temporary curb on exporting diesel and aviation fuel to other EU countries by a vote of 135 in favor, 4 against, with 42 abstentions.
- The resolution allows case-by-case export permissions by the Customs Agency chief for international agreements, humanitarian needs, protection of domestic operators, production continuity, and public interest.
- Military-related fuel supplies are excluded from the export curb, and the U.S. Treasury announced the Rosneft and Lukoil sanctions on October 23.