Kisyov questions Lukoil’s control of Neftochim Burgas

Vladimir Kisyov, among Bulgaria’s initial negotiators for European Union membership, explained that Lukoil emerged as the logical purchaser of Neftochim Burgas because the refinery primarily handled Soviet and Iraqi petroleum products at the time of privatization. The former deputy foreign affairs minister told Nova TV that geographic logistics favored the Russian company, though no one anticipated that future geopolitical conflicts would create such complications.

Kisyov expressed longstanding concerns about Russian involvement in Bulgarian economic affairs, noting that historical evidence suggests Moscow is an unreliable partner. The former SOS chairman acknowledged the government and parliament are addressing the sanctions issue seriously, though he questioned whether installing a special manager while Lukoil retains majority ownership might trigger internal company disputes.

Bulgaria should request either a delay or exemption from Washington’s sanctions framework, Kisyov argued. The country needs a functioning, regular government to navigate the crisis effectively, he added.