Slovak PM threatens "further measures" against Ukraine over Druzhba oil pipeline
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has said that his country may resort to further steps against Ukraine over a halt in supplies of Russian oil.
Source: Fico on Facebook, as reported by European Pravda
Details: Fico said that during his speech at the European Council meeting he informed those present about the declaration of a "state of emergency in the oil supply sector in Slovakia and about practical difficulties caused by the unilateral decision of President Zelenskyy of Ukraine to stop supplies of Russian oil".
He said that Slovakia and Hungary "have the right to receive Russian oil until the end of 2027, not only through the Druzhba oil pipeline but also by sea". He also complained that the situation is being further complicated by military conflict in Iran.
"I once again stressed that it is strange that after everything the EU has done for Ukraine, we as a large international organisation cannot persuade or force President Zelenskyy to allow immediate inspection of the allegedly damaged pipeline, its repair and restoration of its operation as soon as possible," Fico said.
The Slovak prime minister stressed that he confirmed the country's readiness "to take further measures against Ukraine if its political leadership continues to deliberately inflict economic damage on Slovakia".
Fico also said that he "raised the question of whether this is a deliberate attempt to finally cut off Slovakia and Hungary from supplies of Russian oil".
"I also expressed the opinion that by constantly delaying restoration of Russian oil supplies, President Zelenskyy is illegally interfering in election campaigns in Hungary with the aim of replacing the current Hungarian government," Fico added.
Background:
- EU leaders held a discussion on 19 March on providing Ukraine with a loan of €90 billion, but they failed to persuade Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán to lift his veto. Separately, criticism was voiced towards President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over inappropriate remarks addressed to Orbán.
- Orbán said on the sidelines of the European Council in Brussels that Hungary would not unblock any decision favourable to Ukraine until the Druzhba oil pipeline resumes transporting Russian oil.
- On Thursday 19 March, following discussion of the Ukrainian issue, the European Council adopted conclusions on Ukraine bearing signatures of 25 EU leaders, with the exception of Hungary and Slovakia.
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