Slovakia and Hungary on Wednesday declared a temporary halt to diesel exports to Ukraine until crude flow through the Druzhba pipeline resumes.
The Slovak government stated that Prime Minister Robert Fico ordered the suspension of diesel exports to Ukraine after crude oil shipments via the Druzhba pipeline were disrupted following extensive Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Additionally, the government authorized the release of 250,000 tons of oil from state reserves to ensure stability in domestic supply.
“Slovnaft is stopping diesel exports to Ukraine and any other exports, and everything it now processes at home, in Slovakia, will be intended for the Slovak market,” Fico said.
Since January 27, the transit of Russian crude oil through the Druzhba pipeline to Slovakia and Hungary has been halted after infrastructure was damaged by Russian shelling. Both Slovakia and Hungary accused Ukraine of being responsible for the ongoing disruption.
Hungary also confirmed it is suspending diesel exports to Ukraine. Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó declared the move following a government meeting. Szijjártó said that oil transit has not resumed ‘by the decision of Ukraine,’ calling the situation ‘a purely political decision.’
Szijjártó further noted that Hungary’s strategic oil reserves are sufficient for 96 days, and the country faces no immediate supply risks. He added that Hungarian energy company MOL has arranged Russian crude shipments by sea through Croatia, with deliveries expected to begin in mid-March.
Meanwhile, Fico indicated that Slovakia may reevaluate its electricity cooperation with Ukraine, stating that if Ukrainian President Zelenskyy considers the cooperation unnecessary, Slovakia may withdraw from supplying power.
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