Ukraine sends its position on Druzhba pipeline to EU

Responsibility for the suspension of Russian oil transit to Europe via the Druzhba pipeline lies with Russia, whose attacks damaged it, and ultimatums and political pressure on Ukraine from some EU member states over the issue are unacceptable.

According to a letter titled Position of Ukraine Regarding the Situation with the Druzhba Oil Pipeline, sent ahead of a meeting of the EU Coordination Group for oil and petroleum products on 25 February, Ukraine said it does not accept political pressure from certain EU states regarding the Druzhba pipeline, stressing that Russia is to blame for its shutdown.

"Full responsibility for the suspension of oil transit through the Druzhba pipeline lies solely with the Russian Federation as a consequence of its terrorist attack against Ukraine's critical infrastructure," the letter says.

Ukraine pointed out in the letter that as a result of targeted Russian attacks on 27 January, key facilities of the main oil pumping station near the town of Brody in Lviv Oblast were significantly damaged, including technological and auxiliary equipment of the Druzhba pipeline.

"We draw attention to the unacceptability of ultimatums and political pressure by certain member states, including threats to suspend diesel fuel and electricity supplies or to block EU assistance and sanctions against the Russian Federation," it adds.

Ukraine believes that such actions play into the hands of the aggressor state and contradict the principles of EU energy solidarity, non-discrimination and sincere cooperation.

It is emphasised that "the Ukrainian side is interested in restoring transit as soon as possible within the available legal framework".

The EU Oil Coordination Group, with the participation of representatives from Hungary, Slovakia and Croatia, discussed the situation around the Druzhba pipeline on 25 February, and concluded that at this stage its suspension does not pose a threat to the EU's energy security.

Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said he would deploy troops to guard energy facilities against an alleged "Ukrainian threat".

Earlier, Hungary blocked a €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine as well as the adoption of the 20th EU sanctions package against Russia, and has threatened to maintain its veto until Kyiv restores Russian oil transit to Europe via the Druzhba pipeline, which was damaged in a Russian air attack.

On 23 February, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico ordered the suspension of emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine and said he could review Slovakia's position on Ukraine's accession to the EU; Hungary has threatened a similar move.