Croatia denies Russian oil to Orban and Fico

Croatia refuses to allow Hungary and Slovakia to transit Russian oil through Adria

The Croatian government has refused to allow Hungary and Slovakia to transport Russian oil through its territory because of Adria oil pipeline. The government stressed that it would not support schemes that help finance Russia's war against Ukraine.

Details of the Zagreb decision

The Croatian government stressed that the country is ready to ensure oil supplies to the region from alternative international sources.
At the same time, the purchase of energy from Russia, according to Zagreb, directly contributes to the continuation of the war and attacks against the Ukrainian population.

This position effectively means that Budapest and Bratislava will be denied the use of the Adria route to import Russian raw materials.

Reaction of Hungary and Slovakia

Hungary and Slovakia remain among the European Union countries most dependent on Russian energy.
Both countries have previously opposed the EU's complete rejection of Russian oil and gas, arguing that it poses risks to their own energy security and economies.

Croatia's decision increases tensions within the EU over the sanctions policy against Moscow and the further reduction of imports of Russian resources.

Context.

The European Union has been gradually limiting its purchases of Russian energy since the start of the full-scale war against Ukraine.
Brussels relies on supply diversification, renewable energy development and joint energy security mechanisms.

Croatia's refusal to transit Russian oil was another signal of increased energy pressure on the Kremlin and support for Ukraine from European partners.