Ukrainian government representatives have suggested that the European Union consider utilizing the country’s existing oil transportation infrastructure, specifically through the Odessa-Brody pipeline. This proposal comes amid ongoing discussions regarding energy supplies in the region.
On February 23, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that Slovakia would halt electricity exports to Ukraine unless the country resumes oil transit through the Druzhba pipeline. This pipeline has been a crucial route for oil supplies from Russia to Europe.
Hungary has also taken steps to block a €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine, citing the country’s failure to restore the damaged Druzhba pipeline, which has been affected by Russian attacks. The lack of condemnation from both the Hungarian and Slovak governments regarding these attacks has raised concerns.
Previously, both Hungary and Slovakia had announced a suspension of diesel fuel exports to Ukraine until Russian oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline are restored. This decision has significant implications for Ukraine’s energy security.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Kyiv had informed Budapest about the damage to the Druzhba pipeline in Brody, caused by Russian strikes, as early as January 27. They argued that accusations of delays in oil supplies from Ukraine are unfounded.
The European Commission has expressed a desire for Ukraine to restore operations on the Druzhba pipeline. However, they acknowledged the risks of potential further attacks from Russia, indicating that the decision to resume operations ultimately rests with Ukraine.
The Ukrainian government has proposed using its existing oil infrastructure to address energy supply challenges amid regional tensions. This comes as Slovakia and Hungary impose restrictions linked to the damaged Druzhba pipeline, raising concerns about energy security in Ukraine.