EU Urges Ukraine to Repair Druzhba Pipeline Supplying Russian Oil to Hungary, Slovakia

The European Union has expressed concern over the recent disruption of the Druzhba pipeline, which transports Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia. The pipeline has been inactive since late January due to damage, and the EU is actively seeking solutions for its repair.

EU Engagement with Ukraine on Druzhba Pipeline Repairs

On February 17, Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, a spokesperson for the European Commission, announced that Brussels is in communication with Ukraine to expedite the repair of the Druzhba pipeline. This crucial pipeline has been out of commission since January 27, largely attributed to a reported drone attack by Russia.

• Key Dates:
  • January 27: Disruption of the pipeline begins.
  • February 17: EU confirms communication with Ukraine regarding repairs.
• Key Players:
  • Anna-Kaisa Itkonen (European Commission spokeswoman)
  • Robert Fico (Slovak Prime Minister)
  • Peter Szijjarto (Hungarian Foreign Minister)
  • Ante Susnjar (Croatian Economy Minister)

Impacts on Hungary and Slovakia

The halt in oil supply through the Druzhba pipeline has heightened tensions between Ukraine and the EU member states of Hungary and Slovakia. Despite these challenges, Itkonen reassured that both countries possess around 90 days of reserve oil, mitigating immediate supply risks.

However, the Slovak Prime Minister accused Ukraine of intentionally delaying the restart of the oil flow to put political pressure on Hungary regarding its EU membership veto. This assertion has been described as “political blackmail.”

Alternative Oil Supply Routes

Following the disruption, Hungary sought to utilize its exemption from EU sanctions by importing seaborne Russian crude via Croatia’s Adria pipeline. Peter Szijjarto highlighted the necessity of this route to maintain supply continuity.

In response, Croatian Economy Minister Ante Susnjar expressed Croatia’s readiness to assist, emphasizing the importance of not jeopardizing Central Europe’s fuel supply. He critiqued Hungary and Slovakia for their continued reliance on Russian energy sources, noting that the Adria pipeline is operational and should alleviate dependence.

Analyses from Experts

The Center for the Study of Democracy (CSD) released a report on February 16 stating that Hungary’s reliance on Russian oil is a policy choice rather than a necessity. Martin Vladimirov, the director of CSD’s Energy and Climate Program, argued for a plan to phase out Russian crude by the end of 2026, advocating for improved energy security in Europe.

• Key Insights from CSD:
  • No technical or economic justification exists for continuing the sanctions exemption in Central Europe.
  • Ending reliance on Russian oil is feasible and crucial for EU unity and credibility.