Moldova moves to take over Lukoil's Chisinau Airport fuel depot
The Moldova state takeover of the sole kerosene supply depot at the “Eugen Doga” Chisinau International Airport fuel facility is moving forward.
This action is necessary because Lukoil is facing an abrupt halt to its operations from November 21 due to US sanctions on Lukoil and Western restrictions. Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu announced that authorities have formally offered to purchase the Lukoil depot Chisinau to guarantee flight continuity and stabilize the national petroleum market.
The Council for the Examination of Investments of Importance for State Security rejected Lukoil's prior sales plan to another company, citing national energy security concerns. The Council proposed that the state execute a direct intervention.
“The Council has submitted an offer to acquire the Lukoil depot at the airport, so that the state can take over the company’s infrastructure and resources. The deadline for this offer is November 17, given that, from November 21, Lukoil will be unable to operate,” Dorin Junghietu explained in a Facebook post.
The official clarified that the business continuity for Lukoil has become impossible due to the freezing of its accounts and assets, coupled with the US Treasury’s refusal to approve a sale to the Gunvor company, a direct consequence of the western sanctions.
Lukoil currently holds a significant presence in Moldova, with a network of 110 gas stations. Critically, its subsidiary, Lukoil-Moldova, supplies 100% of the airport’s aviation fuel (kerosene) through its dedicated tanks and facilities.
Minister Junghietu confirmed that while the Republic of Moldova respects the US sanctions regime, it has requested a temporary derogation. This grace period is crucial for Lukoil to maintain operations until the Moldova state takeover of the depot is finalized, thereby preserving kerosene supply security.
“The Republic of Moldova aligns with the American sanctions. However, just like other European Union countries, we have requested a temporary derogation from the USA so that the company's operation continues until we solve the problem, ensuring that the supply of oil resources is not disrupted and people’s daily lives are not affected,” the Energy Minister elaborated.
In a parallel effort, Moldovan authorities are negotiating with entities in Romania and Bulgaria, including representatives from Rompetrol, to secure alternative sources for the country's necessary supply of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene.
The sanctions against Lukoil group entities, imposed by the United States and the United Kingdom, are scheduled to take effect on November 21, 2025, as part of the Western response to the war in Ukraine. Authorities have officially notified the Civil Aeronautical Authority and the airport, warning of potential risks to supply continuity which could impact flight schedules.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
