What is the purpose of the newly granted 60-day U.S. sanctions waiver for Serbia's NIS?

The newly granted 60-day U.S. sanctions waiver allows NIS — Serbia's Russian-owned oil company and operator of the country's only oil refinery — to continue importing crude oil while the sale of the Russian majority stake (held by Gazprom Neft and Gazprom) to Hungary's MOL is finalized.

What are the ownership stakes in NIS held by Gazprom, Gazprom Neft, and the Serbian government, according to the news?

According to the news, Gazprom holds an 11.3% stake in NIS, its sanctioned oil unit Gazprom Neft owns 44.9%, and the Serbian government owns 29.9%; the remainder is held by small shareholders and employees.

Serbia's Russian-Owned NIS Secures Another US Sanctions Waiver

Apr 17, 2026

Serbia's Russian-owned NIS secured a 60-day US sanctions waiver allowing continued crude oil imports pending its sale to Hungary's MOL. The waiver extends until May 22, facilitating the divestment of Gazprom Neft's majority stake.

reuters

2026-04-17

Serbia's Russian-Owned NIS Secures Another US Sanctions Waiver

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Serbia Secures US Sanctions Waiver for Russian-Owned NIS Oil Firm, Energy Minister Says

Serbia's Russian-Owned NIS Secures Another US Sanctions Waiver

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