economy
March 2, 2026
Will NIS Unite EU Opponents
Is it possible that OFAC is looking for another, new buyer for NIS?
TL;DR
- OFAC has reportedly extended NIS's operating license but not yet finalized the transaction approval for MOL's purchase of NIS from Gazprom Neft.
- Speculation suggests OFAC doubts the deal is free from Russian influence, fearing continued Russian leverage through Serbia and Hungary.
- Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced that MOL's finalization of the NIS purchase would lead to coordinated oil market operations in Hungary, Slovakia, and Serbia, enhancing their resilience to political pressure.
- This coordinated approach is interpreted as a pro-Russian energy stance, aligning Serbia with Hungary and Slovakia against EU policies.
- Croatia has rejected Russian oil imports, positioning itself as a key EU energy hub and adhering to EU sanctions, creating friction with Hungary and Serbia.
- The article notes personal exchanges between Serbian and Hungarian leaders, highlighting a shared political alignment against perceived opposition from Croatia.
- Despite efforts to diminish its role, Croatia is presented as crucial for regional energy security, respecting EU energy policies.
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