Hungary and Slovakia have requested Croatia’s assistance in delivering Russian oil following disruptions in oil flow through Ukraine. A Russian attack on the Druzhba pipeline on January 27 halted oil transport to Eastern Europe, with Ukraine blaming Russia for the damage. However, Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Peter Szijarto, refuted Ukraine’s claims, stating that Ukraine had paused oil transit politically. He, along with Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Sakova, asked Croatia to transport Russian oil to their countries via the Adria pipeline, citing a sanctions exemption that allows for sea imports in case of pipeline difficulties.
Szijarto emphasized that energy supply security should not be influenced by ideology, expecting Croatia to ensure the security of Hungary and Slovakia’s oil supply without political interference, unlike Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have not replied to these comments. Croatian Economy Minister Ante Susnjar indicated a willingness to assist Hungary, stating that Croatia would help resolve the supply disruption while adhering to EU laws and U. S. regulations. Hungary and Slovakia depend on Russian energy and oppose EU initiatives to cut off these supplies due to the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has maintained close relationships with Russia and has criticized Ukraine’s EU membership ambitions. U. S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet with Orban and discuss energy, among other issues.
With information from Reuters
