Radev vetoes law changes over Lukoil powers

Bulgaria’s President Rumen Radev has vetoed legislation that would grant sweeping powers to a state-appointed manager overseeing the Lukoil Neftochim refinery. The presidential office warned that the amendments amount to indirect nationalization of company assets while stripping away judicial oversight of management decisions. Radev argued the changes violate constitutional protections for property rights and due process, creating significant financial risk for the government through potential legal challenges.

The veto highlighted procedural concerns about how parliament rushed the bill through both readings within hours, with the Energy Committee meeting lasting under 30 seconds. The legislation came as American sanctions against Lukoil approached their effective date, pressuring lawmakers to act quickly. Parliament must address the presidential objections amid the ticking sanctions deadline.