In response to Ukraine’s halt on Russian oil transiting through the Druzhba pipeline, President Peter Pellegrini has warned that Slovakia could take retaliatory measures if Kiev continues this action. Last week, Ukraine stopped the flow of crude through the Druzhba pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia, citing sanctions against Russia’s second-largest oil company Lukoil. This action has left both EU member states without the oil they rely on for up to 40% of their energy needs.
Pellegrini described Ukraine’s actions as a “very unpleasant interference in our good relations.” He expressed his hope that Ukraine will rectify the situation quickly, as Slovakia, as a sovereign state, may have no choice but to take some form of countermeasure. Although he did not specify what these measures might be, Pellegrini stated that they “would not benefit either Ukraine or its citizens.
Slovakian Defense Minister Robert Kalinak also criticized Kiev’s actions, stating that they are “risking a lot” with their “irresponsible” behavior. The EU had banned seaborne oil imports from Russia in December 2022; however, pipeline deliveries were granted exemptions from the embargo to allow land-locked EU countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic to maintain stable oil supplies.
Lukoil provides approximately 50% of the oil shipped through the southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline, which is part of one of the world’s longest pipeline networks. Other suppliers include Russian state-owned Tatneft, Gazprom Neft, and private company Russneft, as well as several small producers.
Hungary has also pledged to take retaliatory measures against Ukraine for its blockade of oil deliveries from Russia. Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto announced that Hungary would block €6.5 billion ($7 billion) in funds earmarked for Ukraine until Kiev resumes transit. In June, Hungary supplied 42% of Ukraine’s electricity.