European Commission pressured to intervene in oil dispute between Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine
Last week, Ukraine blocked the transit of Russian crude oil to Hungary and Slovakia, prompting both countries to seek assistance from the European Commission. While Germany and Poland were granted exemptions for importing Russian oil, Slovakia and Hungary were affected by Ukraine’s decision, citing sanctions against Lukoil.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto criticized Ukraine’s actions as “hostile” and called for consultations with Brussels. The EU may consider suspending clauses of Ukraine’s association agreement if oil transit is not resumed. Slovakia also raised concerns about potential oil shortages and the impact on its deliveries to Ukraine.
Ukraine’s sanctions on Lukoil, aimed at cutting Russian oil revenue, have caused disruptions in oil flow and strained relations with Hungary and Slovakia. The embargo is seen as a tactic to pressure Hungary, which has opposed EU financial support to Ukraine and its NATO aspirations.
“We have really tried all the diplomatic solutions, and they never worked,” said Ukrainian lawmaker Inna Sovsun regarding the ongoing dispute.
Overall, the conflict highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics between Russia, Ukraine, and EU member states.
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