site.btaPM Zhelyazkov: No Risk of Fuel Crisis in Bulgaria, Burgas Oil Refinery Must Continue Working

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said that there is no risk of a fuel crisis in Bulgaria because the country has ample fuel stock. "The Lukoil refinery in Burgas must continue working," he added as he spoke to reporters in Brussels after the US imposed sanctions on Russia's Lukoil and Rosneft, quoted by the government press office. 

Zhelyazkov also said, "We have a month to make a national decision about how to approach the matter as a country. We will see what is the best option for the refinery so as to make sure the country does not fall under sanctions and can continue production. By November 21 we should have full clarity on the matter."

He was adamant that there is no risk for the production and supply of raw materials as the Burgas oil refinery has long stopped working with Russian oil. 

The difficulties faced by the refinery stem from its ownership, Zhelyazkov said.

Lukoil–Burgas is part of the Lukoil Russia system, as it is indirectly owned by more than 50% through the Russian parent company, and therefore falls under the sanctions regime, the Prime Minister explained.

The options available are connected to the screening process that must be carried out — including examining the possibility of appointing a special administrator and exploring all measures permitted under Bulgarian law, in harmony with the imposed sanctions framework.

Zhelyazkov noted that these are the first sanctions imposed by the administration of President Trump. He added that "the impossibility of Russia ending the war has prompted both the European Union and the US administration to adopt this economic approach through sanctions, aimed at cutting off the financing of the war".

Taking reporters' questions, the Prime Minister also said that the government is about to submit to Brussels the 2026 draft state budget.

Also, he said that no Cabinet changes are planned. "We are not in any talks for participation of MRF - New Beginning in the government, personnel- or structure-wise," he added.