The Bulgarian Parliament has approved a government-backed proposal to restrict the export of petroleum products to other European Union member states, citing the need to protect national energy security in response to new US sanctions targeting Russian oil companies.
The decision follows Washington’s announcement of sanctions against Rosneft and Lukoil, which include freezing their US-based assets and banning American entities from conducting business with them. Companies that continue commercial relations with these Russian firms may also face secondary sanctions.
The new Bulgarian measure, introduced by the ruling coalition and its allies, applies to petroleum products classified under 22 customs codes covering diesel and kerosene categories. While the restrictions are formally described as temporary, the legislation does not specify an expiration date. Lawmakers behind the initiative stated that the goal is to ensure energy security and stabilize the domestic fuel market amid the evolving sanctions regime against Russian energy companies, including Lukoil, which operates the country’s largest oil refinery.
Amid rising uncertainty over fuel supply, the government considers the temporary export and intra-EU delivery ban a necessary and proportionate measure to safeguard the public interest. Certain exceptions will apply, permitting fuel deliveries for refueling domestic and foreign ships and aircraft, as well as for NATO forces and EU member state militaries involved in collective defense operations.
