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U.S. Licenses Rosneft’s German Units Through April 2026 as Berlin Seeks Russia‑Free Solution

Berlin is seeking a permanent sanctions carve‑out alongside potential sale or nationalization to secure refinery operations.

Overview

  • OFAC issued a general license allowing transactions with Rosneft Deutschland and RN Refining & Marketing until April 29, 2026, temporarily insulating the operations from new U.S. sanctions.
  • Germany says it is working with U.S. authorities on a durable, legally secure arrangement that would extend protection beyond the current license period.
  • According to people familiar with the talks, the government is also weighing state intervention options, including nationalization or a forced sale, though compensation risks remain a concern.
  • Rosneft Deutschland holds stakes in PCK Schwedt, MiRo Karlsruhe and Bayernoil, assets representing about 12% of national refining capacity and critical fuel supply for eastern Germany and Berlin.
  • U.S. officials have signaled an expectation of roughly six months to deliver a Russia‑free ownership structure, while Germany’s treuhand control of the assets runs through March 10, 2026.