Ukraine offers Odessa–Brody pipeline as alternative to Druzhba

Ukraine has proposed that the European Union use the Odessa–Brody oil pipeline to transport crude to Hungary and Slovakia while the damaged Druzhba pipeline is being repaired. The suggestion is set out in a letter from Ukraine’s mission to the EU addressed to the European Commission, according to Jevropejska pravda.

The Druzhba pipeline was damaged in targeted Russian strikes on 27 January 2026. Ukrainian experts are still assessing the extent of the damage and the prospects for a swift restoration of operations. Hungary and Slovakia have accused Kyiv of delaying repairs for political reasons.

Budapest has since decided to block approval of a €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine and has made its consent conditional on the resumption of Russian oil transit through Druzhba.

Kyiv warns that stable operation of the energy infrastructure will only be possible if Russia halts its missile and drone attacks. According to diplomats, repair work is being carried out under the constant threat of further strikes.

(pir)