A recent drone strike attributed to Russian forces has caused significant damage to the Druzhba oil pipeline, one of the largest oil transport systems in Europe. The incident has raised concerns about the operational capacity and safety of the pipeline.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that the attack resulted in extensive internal damage to the pipeline’s equipment due to the burning oil. He noted that while the external damage may not be immediately visible, the internal impact is substantial, necessitating a detailed assessment.
“This is a considerable amount of work. Currently, Naftogaz is completing the defect assessment,” Shmyhal stated.
Following the completion of this assessment, a cost estimate for repairs will be prepared, along with a timeline and resources required to restore the pipeline’s functionality.
According to Shmyhal, the drone struck one of the largest storage tanks, which contained approximately 25,000 cubic meters of oil at the time of the attack. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that some of the burning oil was being pumped into the pipeline to prevent a larger technological and ecological disaster.
“The oil was essentially in a boiling state,” he explained.
This incident has further complicated the situation surrounding the Druzhba pipeline, which has already faced disruptions. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha recently indicated that the attack had halted oil transit to Slovakia and Hungary, exacerbating energy supply concerns in the region.
The recent drone strike on the Druzhba oil pipeline has resulted in significant internal damage, prompting urgent assessments and repair plans. This incident has halted oil transit to Slovakia and Hungary, raising concerns about energy supply stability in the region.