Kyiv: Ukraine plans to complete repairs to the Druzhba oil pipeline by the end of spring, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, as the country faces growing pressure from European partners affected by the disruption.
The pipeline, one of the largest oil supply routes in Europe, was damaged earlier this year during Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The disruption halted oil flows to countries such as Hungary and Slovakia, which rely heavily on the route for their energy needs.
Zelenskyy said most of the repair work has already been completed, but some parts of the system, including storage facilities, require more time due to the extent of the damage. He stressed that Ukraine is committed to restoring the pipeline and is fulfilling its obligations despite the difficult conditions caused by the ongoing war.
The delay has led to tensions with Hungary and Slovakia, both of which have accused Ukraine of slowing down the repair process. Ukraine has denied the claims, saying the work is being carried out as quickly as possible while ensuring the safety of workers in areas still under threat.
The situation has also affected wider relations within Europe. Hungary has blocked some European Union financial support for Ukraine, while Slovakia has warned it could reconsider certain forms of cooperation. These moves have increased pressure on Kyiv to speed up the repairs.
At the same time, Ukraine has agreed to accept technical and financial assistance from the European Union to help restore the pipeline more quickly. European leaders see the pipeline as important for maintaining energy stability in the region, especially as countries continue to adjust to reduced reliance on Russian energy.
Despite the push to restore the flow, the issue remains politically sensitive. The pipeline carries Russian oil, and restarting it raises questions as the war continues. Ukraine has said that while it can repair the infrastructure, decisions about using the pipeline ultimately lie with European countries.
Until the repairs are complete, Hungary and Slovakia have been exploring alternative routes for oil supplies, including connections through other European networks.
The expected completion of the repairs in the coming weeks could ease tensions and improve energy security in the region, but it also highlights the complex balance between war, energy needs and political interests in Europe.