In the European Union, disputes have arisen over the Druzhba oil pipeline, to which Ukraine still has not granted access to the inspection mission, Euractiv reports.
Source: PRYAMYI
In Brussels and the capitals of EU countries, Kyiv’s decision has caused surprise and irritation. Diplomats admit that they do not understand why Ukraine is denying access. “We have no clear idea of what game Ukraine is playing,” one interlocutor noted.
The EU inspection team has been in Ukraine for several weeks and wants to check the site of the pipeline damage, but is still waiting for permission. The EU believes that without this inspection, it is difficult to make decisions regarding new sanctions against Russia and issues important for Hungary and Slovakia, which rely on this oil. “The only way out is to go and see what’s actually there,” diplomats say.
At the same time, not all EU representatives are critical of Ukraine. Some recognize the complexity of the situation, as the country is at war. “From a human perspective, it’s also understandable – why repair what is effectively financing the war,” one diplomat said.
The EU also reminds that the union is gradually phasing out Russian oil, so the situation with Druzhba is being considered within a broader energy context.