The United States supported Iraq in transferring Lukoil's assets to an American company

The US authorities support Iraq's plans to transfer Lukoil's stake in one of the country's largest oil fields, West Qurna—2, to an American oil company. This was reported on December 8 by Bloomberg, citing informed sources.

The West Qurna-2 field provides about 10% of all oil production in Iraq. Last week, the Iraqi Oil Ministry announced that it was negotiating with the American side to transfer a controlling stake in the project. Media sources report that the administration of US President Donald Trump insists that Lukoil's global assets come under their control.

Exxon Mobil and Chevron are among the potential bidders for the assets. According to Bloomberg, preference is given to Exxon for West Qurna-2, which already has experience working at the neighboring West Qurna-1 field.

Exxon resumed operations in Iraq after a two-year hiatus, signing a preliminary agreement to develop the Majnun field. The US State Department has confirmed its support for these plans, as well as its intention to continue to defend the interests of American companies in Iraq.

Solo concern: Ramoco Fuels claims Lukoil's refueling business in the USA

An American company wants to lease 194 gas stations and is offering $150 million for them.

Prior to that, on December 4, the department's General Inspectorate (OFAC) reported that the US Treasury had authorized international operations with the Russian oil and gas company Lukoil, necessary for servicing gas stations, until April 29, 2026. The document allows for all transactions that were previously prohibited by sanctions involving Lukoil International GmbH (LIG) or any company in which LIG has 50% or more, both directly and indirectly.

On December 2, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Moscow considers sanctions against the Russian oil sector illegal. According to him, the only sanctions that can be considered legitimate are those that have been approved by the UN Security Council.

On October 22, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions against Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil. It was clarified that restrictions were imposed for their activities in the Russian energy sector.

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