Bulgaria may seek an exemption from the new US sanctions targeting key Russian oil companies, Politico reported. According to sources familiar with the matter, the government in Sofia expresses serious concern that the imposed restrictions could trigger a critical fuel shortage and provoke social unrest in the country.
Last week, the US president announced sanctions against some of Russia's largest energy giants. These measures are putting pressure on several European countries, where these companies have significant assets. Among those affected is Bulgaria, which is home to a key refinery, providing a large percentage of the country's fuel consumption.
According to information from sources, the Bulgarian government has already taken steps towards Washington, seeking clarity on the procedures for a possible exemption or partial postponement of the implementation of the sanctions, which are due to take effect in November.
The authorities are particularly concerned about the prospect of banks and international partners ceasing work with the refinery. This could force a halt in production, which in turn would lead to a fuel crisis and possible mass protests.
Sources claim that Sofia fears a potential collapse of the government in the event of such a development. In addition, there is a risk of increased support for the president, who has hinted at the possibility of creating a new political formation.
The former Minister of Environment expressed the opinion that the government is "unprepared" and "has no plan of action for emergencies", in case the Russian company is forced to withdraw. He suggested that the government temporarily take operational control of the refinery, supported by an international expert committee, to ensure stability and transparency.
At the same time, other analysts dispute these concerns, characterizing them as exaggerated. According to a former Bulgarian ambassador to Russia, this is a "scare tactic" whose aim is to delay the process of restructuring the ownership of the Russian company.
The expert emphasizes that there is a real interest from potential buyers for the company's assets and calls for calm, adding that the refinery can continue to function even with a change in management. The atmosphere in the country is tense, given the upcoming changes and uncertainties about the future of the energy sector.