Fuel Crisis: Slovakia and Hungary Cut Off Diesel Supplies to Ukraine

The government of Slovakia, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, announced the introduction of a state of emergency in the oil supply sector, effective from February 19, 2026. This decision is a direct consequence of the suspension of Russian crude pumping through the southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline since January 27. According to official statements from Kyiv, infrastructure near the town of Brody was damaged due to Russian attacks. However, Prime Minister Fico claims the pipeline has already been repaired, and the lack of resumed supplies is the result of "political blackmail" targeting the governments in Bratislava and Budapest. Consequently, Slovakia decided to release 250,000 tons from state strategic reserves to supply the Slovnaft refinery and prevent fuel shortages at gas stations. Energy relations between Ukraine and its western neighbors have remained tense since the outbreak of full-scale war in 2022, when Visegrad Group countries began diversifying supply sources, despite strong dependence on historic Soviet infrastructure.Simultaneously, Hungary made an identical decision to halt exports of diesel to Ukraine. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó emphasized that fuel aid will not be restored until the Ukrainian operator ensures safe and stable oil transit southwards. The situation is particularly difficult for Kyiv, as imports of refined fuels from the Slovak refinery Slovnaft were a key pillar of Ukraine's wartime economy. 250,000 tons — of oil Slovakia released from strategic reserves Prime Minister Fico further warned that maintaining the blockade could prompt Slovakia to withdraw support for Ukraine's aspirations to join the European Union. Although the European Commission reassures that Slovakia and Hungary have sufficient short-term stocks, both countries aim to fully utilize an alternative supply route via the Adria pipeline from Croatia. However, full technological adaptation for transmission from the southern direction will take the Slovnaft refinery between 20 and 30 days. Until then, these countries intend to strictly ration resources and exert diplomatic pressure on Volodymyr Zelenskyy. „If the blockade is confirmed, Kyiv will lose our trust and support, as energy blackmail policies cannot be tolerated.” — Robert Fico Slovakia: 30, Hungary: 90 Energy Crisis Timeline: January 27 — ; February 17 — ; February 18 — ; February 19 —