The Russian military continues to launch attacks which target Ukraine's electrical infrastructure. Ukraine faces two new power supply difficulties. Slovakia has decided to terminate its emergency power support which it provided to Ukraine. The decision follows tensions over oil supplies from Russia.
Oil Supply Issues
The Druzhba pipeline provides the route which delivers Russian crude oil to Central Europe. The pipeline passes through Ukrainian territory. Hungary and Slovakia lost all oil deliveries that began on January 27. Ukraine charges Russia with destroying the pipeline by using drone attacks. Slovakia presents a different position. Slovakia asserts that the pipeline functions properly. Slovakia claims that Ukraine is preventing its ambassador from conducting an inspection. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly refuses to discuss the issue.
Slovakia’s Response
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico announced retaliatory measures. The government of Ukraine will no longer receive emergency electricity supplies. The measures will continue until oil flows from Russia resume. Fico warned of serious consequences if Ukraine does not restore oil supply. He also said Slovakia may stop supporting Ukraine's EU membership efforts.
Political Context
Slovakia and Hungary are EU members with pro-Russia stances. The Foreign Minister of Ukraine responded to the dispute. He called on both countries to act responsibly and exercise restraint.
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