Russian oil firms may stop supplying Belarus’ Naftan – Reuters

<p> MINSK, Apr 28 - PrimePress. Russian oil exporters may suspend supplies to Belarus’ Naftan refinery after the United States tightened sanctions on Belarus over alleged human rights violations and abuses, four sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Russia’s Rosneft and Surgutneftegaz do not plan to supply oil to Naftan in May, two of the sources said. Other companies (Tatneft, Russneft and Neftisa) are awaiting a decision of their management. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Reuters says Russia supplies Naftan with 5.5 million barrels of oil per month and the four sources said they now expected the volumes to be redirected to sea ports for export. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Belneftekhim declined to comment, according to the Reuters news message. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Starting 3 June 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will resume sanctions against nine Belarusian companies - State Concern Belneftekhim and its U.S. subsidiary, Belshina, Grodno Azot, Grodno Khimvolokno, Lakokraska, Naftan, Polotsk Steklovolokno and Belarusian Oil Trading House. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Although the Russian companies are not directly affected by the renewed sanctions, they fear that they may fall under so-called secondary sanctions if they continue to do business with Belarusian enterprises. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Launched in 1963, Naftan is Belarus’ largest refinery and one of the largest in Europe. In 2008 Naftan incorporated another Belarusian refinery Polimir. The state holds a 99.83% stake in Naftan’s statutory capital. </p> <p>   </p> <p> Naftan produces euro-4 and euro-5 diesel fuel, petrol and lubricants, which are exported to the EU, the Middle East and the United States. End </p>

2021-04-29

Primepress