Hungary and Slovakia Threaten Ukraine's Power Supply Over Halted Oil Transit.

Power Supply Threats from Hungary and Slovakia

According to UATV: Hungary and Slovakia have threatened to cut off emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine unless Kyiv resumes the flow of Russian oil through the 'Druzhba' pipeline by February 23. This ultimatum comes as Ukraine's energy infrastructure remains under severe strain from the ongoing war. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated the decision was a response to perceived threats to ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine, while Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico confirmed his country's readiness to halt power exports.

The deadline for resuming oil transit via the 'Druzhba' pipeline is set for February 23. Shipments to Slovakia and Hungary were initially stopped after the Russian military struck the Ukrainian section of the pipeline on January 27. Following this disruption, both the Slovak and Hungarian governments declared a state of emergency in their oil products markets.

Demands and Consequences

Péter Szijjártó further noted that Hungary will not resume diesel exports to Ukraine and will block EU financial aid for the country. He emphasized, 'until oil supplies from Ukraine are restored, this $90 billion will never reach Ukraine,' echoing a statement from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. This stance highlights a significant rift within the EU regarding support for Ukraine.

'This is no longer about economics, nor is it about common European rules.' – Ihor Chalenko

In response to Slovakia's actions, experts have voiced serious concerns. Branislav Grelling also commented on the situation, stating: 'Fico is once again acting in Moscow's favor and harming Ukraine.'

The dispute over oil transit and power supplies underscores growing tensions between Ukraine and some of its neighbors, who had previously offered support. Restoring the 'Druzhba' pipeline flow could be a key factor in stabilizing Ukraine's energy situation during a time of immense wartime challenges. The subsequent actions of Hungary and Slovakia could significantly impact Ukraine's energy security and its ability to receive crucial international financial assistance.