Bulgaria Secures Sanctions Exemptions for Russian Nuclear Plant Supplies

Bulgaria's government has approved exemptions from European Union sanctions on Russia, permitting the import of Russian iron and steel required for the continued operation of Units 5 and 6 at the Kozloduy nuclear power plant. The decision was made on Wednesday.

Kozloduy is Bulgaria's sole nuclear facility and the largest electricity producer in the EU and NATO member state, contributing over a third of the nation's annual power output. The plant, which relies on Soviet-era technology, currently operates two reactors with a combined gross capacity of 2,000 megawatts.

The government stated that regular deliveries of components and parts from original designers, constructors, and equipment manufacturers—much of which originates from Russia—are essential to guarantee nuclear safety and ensure uninterrupted electricity generation.

In a separate exemption, the cabinet has allowed the state-owned National Electricity Company (NEK) to contract a branch of Russia's Atomstroyexport. This contract is aimed at preserving equipment originally supplied for Bulgaria's unfinished Belene nuclear project. Maintenance work is underway at the Belene site to prevent deterioration of the specialised machinery and ensure all equipment remains compliant with regulatory standards.