Romania plans to take control of Lukoil gas stations, the decision will be made in December
The Romanian government will decide in December on the possibility of taking Romanian gas stations of Lukoil under state control. This decision is of strategic importance for the country’s energy security.
The Romanian Cabinet of Ministers has been granted the authority to appoint special administrators to control the assets of companies under international sanctions if their activities may threaten energy security or the economy. These measures specifically apply to the Russian oil giant Lukoil, which owns 320 gas stations in Romania and operates the country’s third-largest oil refinery.
Prime Minister Ilie Bolojanu stated that the government will decide in December whether to nationalize Lukoil’s gas stations. Meanwhile, Energy Minister Bogdan Ivan revealed that three strategic companies are already negotiating with Lukoil over a potential acquisition of its assets. Lukoil’s refinery, responsible for a quarter of Romania’s fuel needs, was recently shut down for maintenance. The government assured that there are enough reserves in the country to prevent sudden spikes in fuel prices.
By implementing these measures, Romania joins a number of other countries, such as Bulgaria and Serbia, which have already taken control of Lukoil refineries on their territories this year. This decision could have significant implications for the energy market and international relations in the region.
| Country | Number of Lukoil Gas Stations | Nationalization Status |
| Romania | 320 | Decision in December |
| Bulgaria | — | Nationalized |
| Serbia | — | Nationalized |
