EU Experts Address Oil Pipeline Dispute in Ukraine

European Union experts have arrived in Ukraine to assess the Druzhba oil pipeline, after its closure led to tensions between Ukraine, Hungary, and Slovakia. The EU is providing technical and financial support for repairs amid disputes over oil transit delays and political implications surrounding the Russian supply cut-off.

European Union experts have touched down in Ukraine to evaluate the state of the Druzhba oil pipeline, as confirmed by state energy firm Naftogaz. This follows a disruptive closure in January that sparked a diplomatic row with Hungary, complicating the approval of an EU loan to Kyiv.

Technical inspections come as Hungary, along with Slovakia, are cut off from receiving Russian oil deliveries via Druzhba. This blockade started after Ukraine reported a Russian strike on pipeline equipment in western Ukraine, necessitating extensive repairs.

Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskyi expressed gratitude for the EU's commitment to provide financial and technical aid to restore the Brody pumping station. Meanwhile, Hungary accuses Ukraine of politically motivated delays in resuming oil flows, amid broader geopolitical tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)