Slovakia Urges Ukraine to Restart Russian Oil Transit in Letter from Fico to Zelenskyy

Slovak Prime Minister's Appeal to Ukrainian President

According to Главком: In a letter to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has called for the resumption of Russian oil deliveries via the 'Druzhba' pipeline to Slovakia. Fico stated that the decision to halt transit has inflicted not only economic damage but also severe logistical difficulties on his country. He emphasized that Slovakia holds an exemption from European Union sanctions, permitting it to continue importing Russian crude oil. This situation highlights the complex balancing act some EU nations face between adhering to sanctions and maintaining energy security.

Pipeline Inspection and Slovak Stance

Fico further noted in his letter that the Slovak side has received no confirmation of damage to the 'Druzhba' pipeline. He urged that a European Commission inspection team be granted access to assess the infrastructure's condition.

“We received with great regret the news that you decided to stop the transit of oil through your territory to Slovakia,” stated Robert Fico.

Additionally, Fico underscored that the Slovak Republic is currently providing temporary refuge to more than 180,000 Ukrainian citizens, expressing solidarity with Ukraine. He and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have agreed on the necessity of restoring the oil transit, indicating the issue's importance for both parties.

The resumption of oil transit via the 'Druzhba' pipeline could significantly impact Slovakia's and the wider region's energy security. Slovakia, which holds the sanctions exemption, seeks to resolve the logistical problems caused by the supply stoppage. Involving European authorities to inspect the infrastructure also demonstrates a desire to ensure transparency and safety in the process, which could help rebuild energy cooperation between Ukraine and Slovakia.