US extends sanctions exemptions for Lukoil gas stations abroad until April 2027
The US Treasury Department has extended sanctions exemptions allowing gas stations operated by Russian oil company Lukoil outside Russia to continue operating until April 24, 2027.
The Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued the updated licenses on October 15, replacing an earlier authorization that was due to expire on October 29.
The exemption allows Lukoil-branded gas stations in countries including the United States to continue serving customers despite sanctions against the Russian oil company.
Permitted transactions include fuel and lubricant supplies, rent, insurance, employee salaries and payments to suppliers.
However, the authorization maintains restrictions on transferring funds to individuals or accounts located in Russia.
OFAC also issued a separate license authorizing certain transactions involving four Lukoil entities in Bulgaria: Lukoil Neftohim Burgas, Lukoil Bulgaria, Lukoil Aviation Bulgaria and Lukoil Bulgaria Bunker.
According to Euronews, the extensions are intended to protect retail consumers from disruptions caused by sanctions.
The decision comes amid wider debate over US energy dealings with Russia. President Donald Trump recently announced a separate agreement under which Russia would supply diesel to US and global markets, a move that drew criticism from European officials concerned about Moscow's revenues during its war against Ukraine.