The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to our country Eleonora Mitrofanova commented on the actions of the Bulgarian authorities towards "Lukoil" as "hasty and legally dubious". Mitrofanova commented on the topic in an interview with the Russian state news agency TASS, quoted by bTV.
„The situation with "Lukoil" is very serious and worrying. "Lukoil" wanted to sell its European holding, which would have been the best option, but the deal fell through. The sanctions are due to come into effect on November 21, so Bulgaria is in a hurry to remove the refinery from its jurisdiction," she pointed out.
The ambassador commented that a law on a special manager of the refinery was passed "hastily on Friday," and that from the moment of his appointment, the current management of "Lukoil Neftochim" will lose its right to make management decisions.
In her words, so far this looks like a law on the alienation of property. "The Bulgarians are taking a very risky course. They are setting a dangerous precedent," Mitrofanova said.
She stressed that the Burgas refinery is one of the most modern in Europe, providing approximately 80% of Bulgaria's fuel needs and exporting fuel to neighboring countries.
“Any disruptions at the refinery would have serious consequences and could trigger a fuel crisis. Given the country's upcoming transition to the euro, both economic and political difficulties can be expected,” the Russian ambassador pointed out.
Mitrofanova noted that “Lukoil“ is a private company that works in the interests of its shareholders, not the Russian government.