In a significant escalation of tensions between Slovakia and Ukraine, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has issued an ultimatum demanding that Ukraine restore oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline by Monday. This pipeline, which is critical for transporting Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary, was damaged by a Russian drone strike, causing a halt in oil flow. Fico's statement, made on social media, highlights his dissatisfaction with the delay, which he attributes to Ukraine's alleged negligence in speeding up repairs.

Ukraine has responded, insisting that the Druzhba pipeline is still not operational and has suggested utilizing an alternative route from the port in Odessa. The European Commission underscored Ukraine's commitment to fix the pipeline, indicating that both sides are looking for a resolution to the supply issues. The conflict over oil supplies is tense, with implications not only for Slovakia’s energy security but also for Ukraine, which relies on electricity imports from Slovakia during emergency situations.

Meanwhile, the Slovak opposition has voiced concerns that stopping electricity supplies to Ukraine could severely harm Slovakia itself, suggesting that Ukraine would find alternative solutions without much trouble. The situation reflects broader geopolitical tensions linked to energy security in the region, influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the responses from various European entities concerning energy dependencies and supply chains.