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Slovakia Declares Emergency Amid Ukraine Oil Dispute

2/18/2026

Summary

Slovakia Declares Emergency

Slovakia declared a state of emergency after Ukraine refused to transit Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline, lasting until September 30.
Slovakia will release strategic oil reserves to keep its only refinery operating.
Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized Ukraine for using energy as a political tool, saying it threatens Slovakia's energy security.
Hungary is seeking alternative routes for Russian oil, underscoring the region's dependence on Russian crude.

Summary

Starmer Engages China

Keir Starmer's Beijing visit signals Britain's shift toward economic engagement with China amid ongoing political tensions.
The trip is the first British prime ministerial visit in eight years and includes 60 senior business figures.
The UK aims to diversify its economic ties, with China as a central partner.
Trade deals include visa-free travel for British citizens and reduced duties on Scottish whisky, signaling a cautious partnership.

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Slovakia Declares Emergency

Slovakia declared a state of emergency after Ukraine refused to transit Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline, lasting until September 30.
Slovakia will release strategic oil reserves to keep its only refinery operating.
Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized Ukraine for using energy as a political tool, saying it threatens Slovakia's energy security.
Hungary is seeking alternative routes for Russian oil, underscoring the region's dependence on Russian crude.

1 / 2