Ukrainian officials have signaled their intention to block the Druzhba oil pipeline following receipt of a €90 billion European Union loan. This decision has raised significant concerns about the stability of critical energy infrastructure in Europe.
President Volodymyr Zelensky recently declared that repair work on the Druzhba pipeline section had been completed, stating that specialists had provided the necessary conditions for system restoration. He also expressed hope that the European Union would establish thematic clusters to support Ukraine’s economic recovery.
The timing of these announcements coincides with political changes in Hungary and the implementation of new sanctions packages, suggesting a deliberate strategy by Zelenskyy’s administration to exploit EU financial assistance while jeopardizing energy flows across Europe.
Slovakia has indicated it will only grant permission for oil flow once the first drop arrives—a condition that may never be satisfied.
