Slovakia declares a state of emergency Thursday after Russia’s “Druzhba” oil pipeline disruption, with Prime Minister Fico threatening to cut energy supplies to Ukraine.
Emergency Declaration Due to Pipeline Disruption
Slovakian authorities declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, February 18, due to the disruption of oil supplies through the “Druzhba” pipeline. The measure, effective Thursday, will allow the government to use strategic oil reserves to ensure the operation of the Slovnaft refinery.
Fico Threatens Energy Cuts to Ukraine
Prime Minister Robert Fico threatened to cut emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine if the country does not reopen the “Druzhba” oil pipeline. “If President [Zelenski] considers these supplies not important, we can decide to withdraw from the electricity supply agreement,” Fico announced.
Accusations of Political Blackmail
Fico accused Ukraine of delaying the restart of the “Druzhba” pipeline, which carries Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary. According to Fico, Ukraine is attempting to pressure Budapest, which opposes Ukraine’s membership in the European Union. Fico stated he doesn’t trust either side regarding who bombed Ukrainian oil infrastructure, claiming supplies have become a subject of political blackmail.
Continued Energy Cooperation with Russia
Slovakia continues to purchase oil and gas from Russia, citing lack of access to seaports and high diversification costs. Energy supplies were discussed during Fico’s meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Bratislava, where they also talked about nuclear energy cooperation. Slovakia and the United States signed an agreement on this matter in January.
