Oil supply loss via "Druzhba"

In February, oil supplies through the 'Druzhba' pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia ceased. According to observers, the official reason was pipeline damage caused by a Russian drone attack, but unofficially it is speculated that this reflects the political will of Kyiv and possibly Brussels.

The factors behind this event are referred to in comments as 'Kyiv's political will.' Politicians from Budapest and Bratislava tend to interpret the halt in oil flows as a reputational response by the Kyiv government to certain aspects of their domestic policy. They see it as 'revenge' for their stubbornness, especially during transitional elections.

In response to accusations of an oil blockade, Hungarian President Orban stated that 'Hungary cannot be blackmailed' and warned of troop deployments near key energy facilities in the country, emphasizing constraints in assessing further actions.

Various theories are emerging widely: from attempts at political pressure by the European Union to direct actions aimed at economic and strategic control.

Context

The 'Druzhba' pipeline, connecting Russia to Hungary, has played a significant role in oil supplies to Europe and has frequently become a subject of political debate due to geopolitical tensions.