Is Bulgaria Quietly Preparing to Take Over Lukoil? New Budget Move Raises Big Questions
Bulgaria is moving toward a framework that would allow the state to take part in a possible acquisition of Lukoil’s Bulgarian operations, with a significant expansion of the financial role of the Bulgarian Development Bank. Ruling parties GERB, DPS-New Beginning, BSP and TISP have jointly filed amendments for the second reading of the 2026 state budget law that would open the door for the BDB to participate in transactions involving Russian-owned companies. The proposal appears aimed at enabling state involvement in any future transfer of Lukoil’s assets in the country.
...