Sanctions against Lukoil have created problems for Bulgaria. The government is preparing response measures

Bulgaria is developing a multi-stage action plan after the United States imposed sanctions on the Russian company Lukoil, which operates the country's largest refinery in Burgas. Energy Minister Zecho Stankov assured that fuel supplies are secured. This was reported by , according to Bulgarian media News.bg.

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on two of Russia's largest oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft, in response to Russia's war against Ukraine. This decision caused a shock in Europe, where Lukoil owns a network of gas stations and is engaged in the transportation, storage and processing of crude oil.

After the Council of Ministers meeting, Energy Minister Stankov announced the activation of a plan to ensure uninterrupted supplies of oil and oil products.

"If there are speculations, they will be controlled by the state. Oil is a commodity traded on the stock exchange, so if there was a reaction there, it should not be reflected so quickly in Bulgarian realities," Stankov said .

The minister explained that the government has a clear plan that includes several phases. The first phase is related to inspection and monitoring. The second phase involves preventive measures and activities that will involve all stakeholders in the discussion and development of the plan.

"It is important that the citizens of Bulgaria can be calm – fuel for consumption is provided," assured the Minister of Energy.

Justice Minister Georgiy Georgiev says oil refinery in Burgas is a strategic facility for national security.

Georgiev assured that not only Bulgaria, but also other European countries are in this situation. In close cooperation with European partners, mechanisms are being prepared to resolve the case in accordance with the new reality.

• on October 22, the United States imposed sanctions against major Russian oil companies Lukoil and Rosneft, and called on Russia to immediately agree to a ceasefire.