Türkiye unveils plan for strategic NATO fuel pipeline to Eastern Europe

Türkiye has proposed the construction of a $1.2 billion fuel pipeline intended for military use to supply NATO allies along the eastern European flank, Bloomberg reported on Friday, May 15.

According to the report, the proposed pipeline would run from Türkiye to Romania, passing through Bulgaria. Ankara is planning to formally present the initiative ahead of the NATO summit it is set to host in July.

Bloomberg noted that the Turkish route could cost approximately one-fifth of alternative proposals, including routes that would pass through Greece or Romania’s western neighbors. Those alternative options would depend on maritime transport, which is considered more vulnerable to potential disruptions.

The report added that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, along with conflicts in the Middle East — including recent disruptions to energy supplies caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — have prompted NATO to reassess its fuel supply infrastructure. In response, member states have been seeking a reliable and cost-effective supply chain for countries on the alliance’s eastern flank.

Türkiye is currently seeking the support of its allies for the proposal, which could be decided either before or during the summit in Ankara, according to the report.

The planned pipeline would reportedly be designated exclusively for military use and would not serve civilian needs.

By Tamilla Hasanova