Druzhba Pipeline Dispute: Zelenskyy Invites Fico to Ukraine Amid Energy Concerns

Kyiv is seeking direct talks with Bratislava following accusations over the halting of Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline, as Hungary and Slovakia push for an investigation into alleged damage.

Zelenskyy’s Invitation to Fico

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has invited Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico to Ukraine to discuss the ongoing dispute surrounding the Druzhba oil pipeline, according to a statement from the Office of the President reported on February 27, 2026. The invitation comes as tensions rise over the suspension of oil transit to Slovakia and Hungary.

Joint Investigation Proposed

Hungary and Slovakia are jointly seeking to establish an investigative commission to assess damage to the Druzhba pipeline within Ukraine. Both countries are requesting access to the facility to verify claims made by Ukraine regarding the cause of the disruption as reported by Reuters. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Robert Fico believe that technical issues, rather than deliberate obstruction, are responsible for the halted oil flow.

Disagreement Over Pipeline Closure

Orbán and Fico have expressed disagreement with Ukraine’s assertion that the Druzhba pipeline’s operation is impossible due to technical problems. They argue that the closure threatens the energy security of both Hungary and Slovakia. Orbán stated that both Prime Ministers disagree with Ukraine’s assessment.

Background of the Dispute

On February 12, Ukraine announced that Russia had attacked the Druzhba oil pipeline, leading to the cessation of oil transit to Slovakia and Hungary. Budapest and Bratislava subsequently accused Ukraine of intentionally disrupting the flow for political reasons.

Escalating Tensions

The dispute has led to increased diplomatic friction. Fico recently threatened to halt electricity supplies to Ukraine amid ongoing difficulties with Ukraine’s power grid due to Russian attacks .

Orbán and Fico’s Alignment

The coordinated response from Hungary and Slovakia highlights a growing alignment between Orbán and Fico, both of whom have been described as allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin according to The Hill. This collaboration is occurring as Orbán faces domestic political challenges.

Further Developments

Orbán and Fico held a phone call on February 27, 2026, to discuss the formation of the investigative commission and to coordinate their approach to Ukraine as reported by Yahoo News.