Georgia's Kulevi refinery starts shift to non-Russian crude
Black Sea Petroleum says Kazakh crude is already in production and the first Libyan shipment is due later this month, as the company works to meet EU requirements to end reliance on Russian oil.
The sanctioned Kulevi oil refinery in Georgia, operated by Black Sea Petroleum, is making progress in replacing Russian crude with alternative sources. The company confirmed that Kazakh crude has already entered the production cycle, with the first delivery from Libya expected by the end of this month.
The move is part of broader efforts to comply with European Union regulations that require ending dependence on Russian oil. The Kulevi refinery, located on the Black Sea coast, has been a key piece of regional energy infrastructure but has faced sanctions that limit its ability to source crude from Russia.
According to the company, the transition is already underway, marking a strategic adjustment to shifting energy policies. Using Kazakh crude is the first step, while Libyan shipments will represent the next phase in diversifying supplies.
This development reflects a wider trend in the region, where energy companies are increasingly avoiding Russian resources. While specific volumes and contract terms have not been disclosed, Black Sea Petroleum is clearly taking concrete actions to align its operations with the new regulatory environment.
The shift is significant not only for Georgia's energy sector but also for the broader regional landscape, illustrating how sanctions and policy changes are reshaping refinery operations. Further deliveries from other countries are likely to become a regular feature as the company seeks stable and compliant production.
