Slovakia and Hungary Reject EU's Proposal for Alternative Oil Supplies

Slovakia and Hungary have rejected the European Commission's suggestion to replace lost Russian oil supplies via an alternative route through Croatia due to the high cost. Both countries previously sought EU mediation after Ukrainian authorities halted the Druzhba pipeline supply from Russia. Discussions continue regarding feasible alternatives.

Slovakia and Hungary have dismissed a European Commission proposal to replace lost Russian oil supplies through an alternative route via Croatia, citing excessive costs.

Supplies from Russia, historically transported through Ukraine, were halted in July after Ukrainian authorities banned the use of the Druzhba pipeline. This prompted Budapest and Bratislava to seek EU intervention to ensure their oil supply security.

The European Commission suggested utilizing the JANAF Adriatic pipeline. However, Hungary and Slovakia rejected the idea, citing Croatia's unreliability and increased transit prices since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Nonetheless, ongoing negotiations aim to secure a viable alternative route.

(With inputs from agencies.)