Hungary and Slovakia have called upon the European Commission to intervene following Ukraine’s decision last week to halt the pipeline transit of Russian crude oil. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions between the EU, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine regarding the sanctioning of imports of Russian crude oil to Germany and Poland.
While Hungary and Slovakia have been granted exemptions from the EU’s sanctions on Russian crude imports, Ukraine has suspended oil transit citing its own sanctions against Russian energy giant Lukoil. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto expressed his disapproval of Kiev’s actions in Brussels, referring to them as “hostile.” He added that Budapest and Bratislava have requested consultations with the European Commission on the matter.
The Hungarian and Slovakian governments are seeking a response from the EU within three days, after which they may take legal action if Ukraine refuses to resume oil transit. In the event of this, the EU would be justified in suspending certain clauses of Ukraine’s association agreement. This comes as the European Union formally approved the start of membership negotiations with Ukraine last month, in a show of support for Kiev amid its conflict with Russia.
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico has voiced his concerns over the potential oil shortages that may result from the halted transit, stating that “Slovakia does not intend to be a hostage to Ukrainian-Russian relations.” Hungarian lawmaker Inna Sovsun suggested that the embargo may serve another purpose: putting pressure on Hungary.
As Ukraine seeks to deny Russia revenue that could be used to fund its military activities, it is also generating transit fees from the oil pipeline. This situation highlights the complex dynamics between European countries and their ongoing efforts to navigate tensions with Russia and maintain stability within the region.