Moldova joins US sanctions against Rosneft, Lukoil

Moldova has joined U.S. sanctions targeting Rosneft and Lukoil.

That is according to Point, citing Mold-Street, Ukrinform reports.

The decision to impose sanctions on the Russian companies was approved by the Interdepartmental Supervisory Council, chaired by Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu.

The sanctions were applied in accordance with the Law on the Application of International Restrictive Measures and considering the risks associated with the activities of Russian oil companies under sanctions, which support and finance Russia's aggressive capabilities, the report said.

The council stated that Rosneft and Lukoil indirectly contribute to regional security destabilization, increased threats to the international order, and affect Moldova's security interests. The decision is also aimed at preventing the use of the national financial and economic system to support such activities.

Russia's Lukoil group owns Lukoil-Moldova, which controls the largest network of gas stations in Moldova, three oil depots, over 20% of the retail fuel market, and about 40% of diesel imports, while holding 100% in the aviation fuel segment.

On December 16, Munteanu announced that the Moldovan authorities would return Lukoil's property at Chisinau International Airport to state ownership within 20 days due to the company's failure to comply with asset sale requirements.

On October 22, the United States imposed sanctions on Lukoil and Rosneft. The restrictions on Russia's largest oil producers were introduced "as a result of Russia's lack of serious commitment to a peace process to end the war in Ukraine."

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