Petrotel-Lukoil refinery in Romania to resume operations after US approval, energy minister says

Romania is set to restart the Petrotel-Lukoil refinery within 45 days after receiving a sanctions waiver from the United States, energy minister Bogdan Ivan announced. The move is expected to boost domestic fuel production and reduce reliance on imports amid the Middle East conflict and the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

“This is extremely important news: we have received official confirmation from the US government for a waiver from the sanctions against Lukoil, allowing Romania to restart the Petrotel-Lukoil refinery. It is a huge piece of news for our country. Through this mechanism, within 45 days, the refinery will be able to operate again and produce diesel, gasoline, and kerosene for Romania,” minister Ivan told local news channel Antena 3 CNN, as reported by Agerpres.