Bratislava, February 23 (QNA) - Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced Monday the suspension of emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine amid a dispute over disrupted Russian oil deliveries via the Druzhba pipeline, which transits Ukrainian territory.

Speaking in a televised address, Fico said the measure was taken in response to what he described as a serious energy situation in Slovakia following the interruption of oil flows.

He noted that the suspension would remain in place until oil transit to Slovakia resumes, warning that additional steps could follow if the situation persists.

Fico also indicated that Slovakia could reconsider its position on certain policy matters related to Ukraine if the disruption continues to affect Slovak national interests.

Oil shipments through the Druzhba pipeline -- a key supply route for Slovakia and Hungary -- have been disrupted since late January following damage to infrastructure in Ukraine, which Kyiv says resulted from Russian attacks.

Slovakia and Hungary have urged the restoration of flows, citing their continued dependence on the pipeline.

Since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine in 2022, the European Union has imposed sanctions on most Russian oil imports, while granting temporary exemptions for pipeline supplies to certain landlocked Central European countries, including Slovakia and Hungary, to allow time to secure alternative sources.

The move comes amid broader tensions between some European Union members and Ukraine over energy transit issues, with Slovakia and Hungary warning of further measures if oil deliveries are not restored. (QNA)