Minister of Mining and Energy, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, announced that the postponement of U.S. sanctions on NIS for another two months — until June 27 — is positive news for Serbian citizens. She emphasized that the extension was the result of an intense diplomatic effort, led by President Aleksandar Vučić and members of the Serbian Government.
“We have been granted an additional 60 days to procure, transport, pay for, and deliver crude oil to the refinery in Pančevo,” Đedović Handanović told Tanjug. “This ensures the refinery will have enough oil to continue production and maintain a stable supply for both citizens and the economy.”
The Minister highlighted that the extra time represents significant relief for Serbia and noted that discussions with American and Russian partners will continue.
“This week, I had intensive communication with my colleagues in Russia. The President also announced an upcoming visit to Washington. Meanwhile, Donald Trump Jr.’s visit to Belgrade today is another signal that relations with the U.S. are on an upward path,” Đedović Handanović said. “It shows the American administration understands our arguments and recognizes the critical role NIS plays in Serbian society.”
On Wednesday, NIS submitted a request to the U.S. Treasury Department seeking a special license to allow continued operations beyond the April 28 deadline set under a previous license issued in March.
In December of last year, the U.S. announced it would impose sanctions on NIS due to its Russian ownership. Originally, sanctions were to take effect on February 28 but were delayed by 30 days to March 28, and then again until April 28.
Today’s decision marks the third consecutive postponement of the sanctions.
