The US Department of the Treasury has once again delayed the enforcement of sanctions on Serbian oil company NIS, marking the sixth extension of the deadline. According to the Serbian Government, the new date for the possible implementation is set for 26 September.
Officials emphasized that despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, NIS continues to ensure stable supplies of crude oil and petroleum products for the domestic market. Serbia’s long-term goal remains the removal of NIS from the sanctions list of the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), although this decision lies outside Serbia’s direct control. Progress will largely depend on broader negotiations between Washington and Moscow, which could influence the overall sanctions framework for entities linked to Russia.
Authorities noted that repeated postponements have helped maintain the country’s energy security, with refining operations running without disruption and sufficient crude oil volumes ensuring steady production. The Serbian Government expressed appreciation for the understanding shown by US institutions, while stressing that the situation remains complex and requires ongoing dialogue with both American and Russian counterparts.
Belgrade reiterated that Serbia played no role in the introduction of these sanctions, describing them as a result of global political developments. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at securing reliable fuel supplies for citizens and industry.
Srbijagas Director Dušan Bajatović confirmed that NIS operations are continuing normally, with fuel reserves sufficient to meet national demand for six to eight months. He also stated that there is no immediate risk of shortages or sharp price increases.
