The sanctioned Russian oil company “Lukoil” transferred the fuel infrastructure of Chișinău International Airport to Moldova’s state ownership, according to the Moldovan Ministry of Energy.

The department noted that the asset transfer agreement was signed by the Public Property Agency, the airport management, and representatives of “Lukoil.”

This decision was taken under the Resolution of the Council on State Security Investments, adopted on December 15, 2025. At that time, the Council banned the Russian oil company from operating in sectors strategically important for Moldova’s security and ordered the return of the situation to the state that existed before 2005 – the moment when the airport’s fueling infrastructure came under Lukoil’s control.

“Lukoil” was to transfer the infrastructure to Moldova by January 9, 2026. For failure to comply with this decision, the company was fined about $295,000. The Moldovan Ministry of Energy said that the fine was paid this week.

Sanctions Context and Consequences

The sanctions context regarding “Lukoil” and “Rosneft” unfolded in October 2025. Britain expanded its sanctions list against Russia, including both companies, and the United States on October 22 also announced sanctions against “Rosneft,” “Lukoil” and their subsidiaries. The list includes more than 34 companies, and this is explained by Russia’s lack of serious commitment to a peaceful process with Ukraine.

On October 27, 2025, “Lukoil” began reviewing proposals from potential buyers for the sale of its international assets. By October 30, it was announced that Gunvor’s proposal to acquire Lukoil International GmbH, the 100% subsidiary of PJSC “Lukoil,” had been accepted. However, this deal did not receive approval from the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

Following the American sanctions, Chinese state operators suspended purchases of Russian crude oil transported by sea.

The events surrounding assets in Moldova highlight a shift in the region’s geopolitical and economic map, with a special emphasis on control over critical energy infrastructure and ensuring the country’s security amid external constraints.