🔗 Share this article Fire Sale of Russian Oil Giant Holdings Ahead of US Sanctions Take Effect Overseas oil refineries and other assets of Russian firm Lukoil are drawing interest from investors as time runs out to strike cheap deals before US sanctions come into force on November 21st. Global Divestments Kazakhstan's national company KazMunayGas is studying a bid for Lukoil's assets in the country, according to sources familiar with the matter. Shell has demonstrated curiosity in Lukoil's deepwater assets in Ghana and Nigeria, various insiders reported. State Acquisition The government of Moldova has begun negotiations to acquire Lukoil's infrastructure at the capital's airport. The Bulgarian government is working towards taking over and auctioning Lukoil's Bulgarian oil plant, although the country's president have sought amendments to the draft bill. Across Egyptian territory, Lukoil has suggested to the authorities its potential intentions to sell out, according to industry observers. Strategic Dilemma Lukoil faces either selling its assets and having the proceeds potentially seized, or their takeover by international governments if it refuses to liquidate. Industry experts propose Lukoil may try to follow energy company Rosneft, whose three German refineries were put under external management in 2022. Conflict Updates The Russian army seized several communities in the Zaporizhzhia region of the war zone. Weather conditions enabled Moscow's army to infiltrate Ukrainian positions, with defending forces engaged in gruelling battles to defend their positions. Humanitarian Crisis In the frontline town, where the conditions deteriorated dramatically, senior citizens described perilous situations. Aerial dangers rendered normal life impossible Lack of pharmaceuticals impacted those in need Drinking water shortages compounded the crisis Official Statements Kyiv mayor the municipal official has proposed the country to expand armed forces by adjusting the threshold of military service. International observers have commented on the power industry corruption in Ukraine, describing it as extremely unfortunate and highlighting the necessity for serious attention. Ministerial Dismissals Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has taken steps to manage escalating popular discontent by removing government officials suspected of participation in a extensive corruption network. National leadership also demanded targeted measures against the alleged organiser of the operation, who reportedly fled abroad before law enforcement could conduct a property inspection.