Serbia's energy minister: Patience wearing thin in NIS talks, Serbia has done its part

Serbia's patience is wearing thin as negotiations for the sale of a majority Russian stake in the Serbian Oil Industry (NIS) continue. The US Treasury granted a 30-day license, allowing operations and finalization of the deal, but the deadline looms.

Russian majority-owned NIS was included in US sanctions on October 9, 2025. Divesting Russian ownership is a key condition for lifting these sanctions. The Hungarian MOL Group has confirmed its intention to acquire the majority stake.

“

Serbia has done everything in its power to ensure we are not a stumbling block. Crucially, over the past 18 months, we have maintained our relations with both the United States and the Russian Federation - no small feat given current geopolitical challenges.

Serbian Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic emphasized Serbia's efforts to facilitate the process without becoming an obstacle. "Serbia has done everything in its power to ensure we are not a stumbling block," she stated, highlighting the delicate balance maintained with both the United States and the Russian Federation over the past 18 months.

The minister also stressed the importance of uninterrupted fuel supply for citizens, noting that no shortages have occurred despite the ongoing difficulties. The ministry is closely monitoring the situation and committed to transparent public reporting. "We are giving it one more chance over the next 30 days to see if the negotiations between the Russian owners and Hungary’s MOL can reach a successful conclusion," Handanovic added.

“

We are giving it one more chance over the next 30 days to see if the negotiations between the Russian owners and Hungary’s MOL can reach a successful conclusion.