Slovakia Threatens to Cut Electricity to Ukraine Over Russian Oil Transit Halt

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has issued a stark ultimatum to Ukraine, threatening to halt emergency electricity supplies unless Russian oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline is restored. The transit of crude oil has been suspended since January 27, with Ukrainian officials attributing the disruption to a Russian drone strike. In a coordinated move, both Slovakia and Hungary have already suspended diesel exports to Ukraine to exert pressure on Kyiv. This escalation poses a significant threat to Ukraine's energy stability during the winter months and underscores deep divisions within the European Union regarding Russian energy dependencies. Market analysts warn that the standoff could lead to increased volatility in regional electricity prices and Brent Crude markets. The European Commission remains under pressure to mediate as the deadline for the ultimatum approaches this Monday.