Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico are collaborating to establish an investigative commission aimed at examining the Druzhba oil pipeline. During a recent phone call, Orbán expressed concern that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy had indicated that any attempt to resume functioning of the pipeline was impossible due to alleged technical issues. This position, according to Orbán and Fico, raises significant concerns regarding the energy security of both Hungary and Slovakia.

Orbán strongly contested Ukraine's claims, asserting that there are no technical barriers preventing the operation of the pipeline. Instead, he suggested that the pipeline's closure is predominantly a political decision that necessitates objective evaluation. He emphasized the importance of transparency and the need for an independent examination of the pipeline's condition, hoping that the investigative commission would clarify the actual circumstances.

The establishment of this commission reflects growing tensions and strategic energy concerns within the region, especially given the reliance of both Hungary and Slovakia on energy supplies. This move not only addresses regional energy security but also underscores the complexities of geopolitics in Eastern Europe, particularly in relation to Ukraine's handling of energy resources amidst ongoing conflicts and negotiations with Russia.