Slovakia Threatens EU Loan Block Over Russian Oil Flow Dispute

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico plans to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to discuss restarting Russian oil flows. The suspension of oil through the Druzhba pipeline has led to tension between Ukraine and its neighbors. Fico threatens to block an EU loan to Ukraine unless oil flows resume.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced plans to engage in high-level talks with EU President Ursula von der Leyen this Tuesday, amid rising tensions over halted Russian oil flows.

The dispute, involving the suspension of oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline, has heightened friction between Ukraine and both Hungary and Slovakia, EU nations that continue to import Russian crude.

Fico has voiced intentions to block a major EU loan to Kyiv, associating the move with pressure tactics to ensure the resumption of oil supplies, emphasizing Slovakia's willingness to take a stand alongside Hungary.

(With inputs from agencies.)