Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has publicly urged Croatia to permit the transport of Russian crude oil through the Adria oil pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia, after pipeline deliveries via Ukraine’s Druzhba route were halted amid geopolitical tensions. Szijjártó — joined by Slovakia’s Economy Minister — sent a letter to Croatia’s economy minister arguing that Ukraine’s refusal to reopen the Druzhba pipeline has created a critical energy supply issue for both countries. He insisted that energy security should not be politicized and said Croatia should not jeopardize regional oil supply for political reasons.
Croatia, while offering to help with energy deliveries in compliance with EU laws, has so far refused to agree to Russia‑linked oil transit and instead stressed readiness to supply non‑Russian crude. Zagreb’s officials argue Croatia will not become a tool to prolong dependence on Russian energy and emphasize adherence to EU sanctions and diversification strategies. Meanwhile, the European Commission assures there is no short‑term risk to oil supply for Hungary and Slovakia, noting emergency stock requirements are met and member states maintain alternative sources.
The dispute highlights ongoing disagreements within the EU over energy policy, sanctions on Russian oil, and how member states respond to disruptions caused by geopolitical conflicts and infrastructure challenges.
