Story perspectives

Croatia Blocks Russian Oil Transit, Prioritizes Energy Security

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Croatia rejected Hungary and Slovakia's request to route Russian oil through the Adria pipeline, citing regional energy security.
Croatian Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar said no EU country should depend on Russian oil and Europe must stop financing the war.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Saková urged Croatia to facilitate transit amid Druzhba disruptions.
Croatia will not support Hungary's reliance on Russian energy amid the tensions.

History

Historical Context

The Druzhba pipeline, operational since 1964, has historically supplied oil to Eastern Bloc countries. Following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, geopolitical tensions disrupted its operations, prompting the EU, particularly Croatia, to seek energy independence. Croatia's Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar highlighted the need for solidarity among EU nations, marking a significant shift towards regional energy security and reduced reliance on Russian oil.

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Story summary

Croatia rejected Hungary and Slovakia's request to route Russian oil through the Adria pipeline, citing regional energy security.
Croatian Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar said no EU country should depend on Russian oil and Europe must stop financing the war.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Saková urged Croatia to facilitate transit amid Druzhba disruptions.
Croatia will not support Hungary's reliance on Russian energy amid the tensions.

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