EU asks Ukraine to set timeframe for restoration of oil pipeline

EU calls on Ukraine to provide schedule for repair of oil pipeline after Russian attack

The European Union has asked Ukraine to provide a clear timetable for the repair of the oil pipeline damaged by the Russian attack, which has halted transit of Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia. This is reported by the Sky News.

The damage to infrastructure led to disruptions in the supply of raw materials to Central European countries, which caused political tensions within the EU and a new wave of accusations against Kyiv by some governments.

Reactions from Budapest and Bratislava

Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Hungary Peter Siyarto said that Ukraine was allegedly delaying the repair of the pipeline for political reasons. In their view, a faster resumption of transit could reduce the risk of fuel shortages in the region.

Such statements have increased tensions between Kyiv and some EU governments, which have traditionally taken a more cautious stance on sanctions against the Russian energy sector.

Attempting alternative supplies

Fearing a fuel shortage, Hungary and Slovakia asked Croatia to provide Russian oil supplies via an alternative route. However, Zagreb refused to provide such assistance, explaining the decision as solidarity with Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

Croatia's refusal underscores the divisions within the European Union over energy policy and relations with Russia, especially in the context of the ongoing military conflict.

Context.

Russia's attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure remain a key factor of instability in the region and directly affect Europe's energy security. At the same time, the issue of Russian oil transit continues to cause controversy among EU states, which have different assessments of the pace of abandoning Russian energy carriers.