Druzhba Pipeline: Political Chess Game Over Russia's Oil in Europe

Hungary and Slovakia are poised for Russian oil deliveries to resume via the Druzhba pipeline, a crucial development after an extended halt caused by a drone attack in Ukraine. The pipeline is essential to securing a pivotal EU loan for Kyiv.

Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Sakova announced imminent resumption of oil flow after Ukraine confirmed infrastructure repairs. The Hungarian company MOL also received signals of restored oil transit, highlighting politically charged infrastructure's importance in ongoing European energy dynamics.

With crude supply restoration, EU ambassadors in Brussels are set to discuss finalizing a substantial loan for Ukraine. Hungary's consent is vital, with the oil flow acting as a leverage point in Europe's complex geopolitical landscape.