The Slovak and Hungarian governments have warned Ukraine that they expect it to restart the flow of Russian oil through its territory, which has been halted for almost a month due to damage from a Russian drone strike. Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico declared that if Ukraine does not act within two days, he will cut emergency electricity supplies to the country, showcasing the pressure on Ukraine from its neighbors who are politically aligned with Moscow and dependent on Russian crude oil.

The supply of oil through the Druzhba pipeline was interrupted on January 27, following an attack on the pipeline's facilities in western Ukraine. The continued suspension of Russian oil shipments has significant implications for Slovakia and Hungary, as both nations rely heavily on this energy source for their economies. The requirement for Ukraine to restore this supply underscores the geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, where energy dependency plays a critical role in diplomatic relations.

Hungary, following Slovakia's lead, has threatened to block EU loans to Ukraine if oil transport does not resume, revealing the delicate balance of power and influence in the region where energy needs can sway political decisions. Both governments are asserting their positions, which not only affects bilateral relations but also reflects broader regional dynamics, particularly as they navigate complex ties with Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This situation may further complicate EU's energy policies and cooperative strategies in response to Russian aggression.