🔗 Share this article Fire Sale of Russian Oil Giant Assets Before US Sanctions Take Effect The foreign refining facilities and other assets of Russia-based firm Lukoil are appealing to prospective purchasers as the deadline approaches to secure bargain purchases before US sanctions come into force on November 21st. Worldwide Divestments Kazakhstan's state firm KazMunayGas is considering a purchase for Lukoil's holdings within Kazakhstan, according to sources familiar with the matter. Shell has demonstrated curiosity in Lukoil's deepwater assets in Ghana and Nigeria, multiple sources stated. Nationalization Efforts Chisinau's administration has initiated discussions to nationalise Lukoil's infrastructure at the capital's airport. The Bulgarian government is working towards confiscating and liquidating Lukoil's Bulgarian oil plant, although government officials have demanded revisions to the draft bill. Across Egyptian territory, Lukoil has signaled to the authorities its consideration to divest completely, according to industry observers. Business Conundrum Lukoil faces either liquidating operations and having the proceeds potentially seized, or acquisition by international governments if it fails to divest. Energy analysts indicate Lukoil may try to copy Russian oil firm Rosneft, whose European operations were put under external management in 2022. Military Developments The Russian army seized three settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region of southern Ukraine. Weather conditions enabled Russian troops to infiltrate Ukrainian positions, with defending forces engaged in intense fighting to counter the advance. Civilian Suffering At Huliaipole, where the situation had worsened significantly, elderly residents described perilous situations. Unmanned aircraft rendered normal life impossible Medicine shortages impacted those in need Limited access to water worsened the situation Official Statements Kyiv mayor Vitaly Klitschko has called for Ukraine to boost its fighting numbers by adjusting the threshold of conscription. Foreign officials have commented on the power industry corruption in Ukraine, describing it as deeply concerning and emphasizing the importance for serious attention. Ministerial Dismissals Ukrainian president the country's leader has taken steps to manage increasing citizen anger by dismissing cabinet members suspected of participation in a extensive corruption network. National leadership also called for personal sanctions against the alleged organiser of the operation, who reportedly fled abroad before authorities could perform a search operation.