Ukraine has suspended the transit of Russian oil to Eastern Europe through the Druzhba oil pipeline following damage to infrastructure caused by recent Russian attacks, the country’s foreign minister announced.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the section of the Druzhba pipeline passing through Ukrainian territory was forced to stop operating after targeted Russian strikes led to a fire and serious damage to pipeline facilities.

Sybiha stated that Hungary was preparing to lodge renewed complaints over disruptions in oil supplies via the Druzhba route. Responding to Budapest’s criticism, he said Ukraine’s advice was clear: Hungarian officials should direct their concerns to Moscow.

“This is the result of Russia’s latest targeted attack on January 27, which caused the Druzhba pipeline infrastructure to burn and halted oil transit,” Sybiha said. He added that Hungary had not issued any protest to Russia over the incident, describing this stance as a “clear example of double standards.”

The Ukrainian foreign minister stressed that Russia ceased to be a reliable energy supplier from the moment it launched its military aggression against Ukraine.

“This aggression is the root cause of all these problems,” Sybiha said. “Unfortunately, this reality has still not been sufficient for the Orban government. They have failed to diversify their energy supply sources despite years of warning. We urge them to open their eyes.”

The Druzhba pipeline is one of the main routes transporting Russian crude oil to several Eastern and Central European countries. Disruptions to its operation have previously drawn international attention amid ongoing tensions and the wider impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on regional energy security. (ILKHA)