Slovakia has signaled it may block the 20th package of EU sanctions against Russia unless guarantees are provided for the resumption of operations of the Druzhba oil pipeline.
Slovakia Links Sanctions to Pipeline Restart
Slovakia announced its potential to block the adoption of the 20th package of European Union sanctions against Russia, contingent on receiving assurances regarding the restoration of the Druzhba pipeline’s functionality. Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar disclosed this information on Thursday.
Simultaneously, Blanar emphasized that Bratislava would not oppose the EU loan for Ukraine.
Veto Threat and Pipeline Damage
Slovakia is threatening a veto against the 20th package of EU sanctions. The country seeks guarantees for the resumption of operations of the Druzhba oil pipeline, which was damaged in western Ukraine due to a Russian attack.
Demand for Transparency
The Slovak government is demanding a clear, transparent, and verifiable declaration that the pipeline, used for transporting Russian oil, will be restarted.
Past Statements and Joint Opposition
Blanar recalled that previous Slovak governments had stated their support for sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, provided they did not harm Slovak interests. Hungary and Slovakia voiced opposition to the new sanctions package during a February meeting of EU foreign ministers.
Oil Flow Interruption and Accusations
Russian oil ceased flowing through the Druzhba pipeline via Ukraine to Slovakia and Hungary at the end of January. Bratislava and Budapest have repeatedly accused Kyiv of delaying the pipeline’s repair and resumption of transit for political reasons. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated during a Tuesday visit to Germany that the damaged pipeline would be operational by the end of April, a claim doubted by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.
Support for Ukraine Loan, With Reservations
Slovakia supports the EU loan for Ukraine.
Blanar informed lawmakers that Slovakia will not block the EU’s 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine, but clarified this does not imply participation in any guarantees for its repayment. He noted that the Fico government believes the loan will further finance the war in Ukraine, a position Bratislava disagrees with.
Hungary’s Potential Shift and Slovakia’s Stance
According to Blanar, the position of the emerging new Hungarian government indicates a willingness to support granting Ukraine the EU loan, which outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán had blocked. Slovak Prime Minister and Orbán ally Robert Fico stated in March that Slovakia was prepared to take over from Hungary in blocking EU funds for Ukraine if necessary.
Attribution
Piotr Górecki (PAP)
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