Slovak president voices concern over Druzhba pipeline disruption

Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has expressed dissatisfaction over the continued shutdown of the Druzhba oil pipeline, warning of potential regional supply risks.

Pellegrini stressed that in the event of disruptions, the pipeline has the capacity to supply not only Slovakia and Hungary, but also the Czech Republic and other countries in Central Europe, underlining its strategic importance, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The Druzhba pipeline, which connects Russia to several European countries including Slovakia, ceased operations following Russia’s attack on Ukraine on January 27. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of delaying efforts to restart flows through the pipeline.

While Pellegrini reiterated his support for diversifying oil supply sources, he emphasised the importance of maintaining the Druzhba pipeline as part of the country’s energy strategy. He added that the government must keep the situation under control.

In contrast to Fico, the president did not directly mention Zelenskyy in his remarks.

By Sabina Mammadli