Activists gathered to protest in Saratov earlier this week against the use of two reactors at the Balakovo nuclear power plant.  Contrary to earlier reports, TNK-BP says it is not considering opening lawsuits against BP, and will no longer seek to be included in a proposed tie-up with Rosneft.  BP has revealed that it has applied for permits to resume drilling in the Gulf of Mexico later this year.  LUKoil has outlined its plans for a listing on the Hong Kong stock exchange, once the oil price has stabilized.  Rosneft is apparently eyeing the director of Nord Stream, Matthew Warnig (a rumored ally of Vladimir Putin), for its board.  North Sea tax increases by the British government could cost Royal Dutch Shell $1 billion next year (although a 41% rise in first quarter profits to $6.9 billion offsets the figures somewhat).