The fate of Lukoil in North Macedonia remains uncertain, as US sanctions against the Russian energy group come into effect on November 21, while an attempt to acquire the company by the Gunvor group failed.

Lukoil owns 40 gas stations in North Macedonia and employs 550 people, holding a 15% share of the country's retail fuel market.
The company is mainly supplied with products from Lukoil's refinery in Burgas, Bulgaria, which the Bulgarian government is trying to take under its control.

Sofia expresses fear that US sanctions against the Russian group could lead to a complete and permanent disruption of the refinery's operations, the largest in the Balkans.
In recent days, Lukoil gas stations in North Macedonia have not accepted payments with Visa and Diners cards, further increasing concerns about the continuity of their operations.

The head of the Energy Regulatory Authority of North Macedonia, Marko Bislimoski, stated that he has held a series of meetings with the management of Lukoil in the country, with the aim of ensuring the normal functioning of the company and preserving jobs. Bislimoski seems optimistic that a solution can be found.

"I had a meeting with the local Lukoil director, who assured me that the company is taking all necessary measures to avoid leaving employees without work.

I believe that Lukoil can continue to operate in the country.

So far, its main supply comes from Bulgaria, but it can also be supplied from other countries.
"We must give it the opportunity to continue its activity, as it can import fuel from non-Russian refineries," said the head of the Energy Regulatory Authority of North Macedonia.