Ukrainian disruption of Russian oil pipeline triggers emergency in EU state

February 19, 2026

TL;DR

Slovakia declared a state of emergency from Thursday until September 30 due to Ukraine's blockage of Russian oil transit.
The Druzhba pipeline network's ongoing blockade prompted the emergency declaration.
Slovakia will release strategic oil reserves to ensure one month of operation for its only refinery in Bratislava.
Alternative oil import routes are being explored, including via Croatia's Adria pipeline, though it may take up to 30 days.
Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Sakova mentioned the Czech government is examining possibilities for oil supply.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico stated that oil company Slovnaft is stopping diesel exports to Ukraine.
Fico also indicated Slovakia might stop supplying electricity to Ukraine over the oil suspension, blaming Ukraine's Vladimir Zelensky for a lack of cooperation.
Ukraine claims the halt was due to a Russian attack, while Slovakia and Hungary believe it's a political decision by Kiev.
Fico suggested Kiev delayed oil flow restarts to pressure Budapest regarding Ukraine's EU membership veto.
Hungary and Slovakia are heavily reliant on Russian crude and have EU sanctions exemptions.
Budapest announced plans to import seaborne Russian crude via Croatia using a temporary exemption.

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