Druzhba Flows Halted, More Russian Refineries Under Attack

Why It Matters

The interruption of the Druzhba pipeline and attacks on refineries reduce Russia's crude export capability, tightening European fuel markets and amplifying geopolitical risk in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Druzhba pipeline flows stopped in Slovakia, Hungary.
• Drone strikes hit multiple Russian refineries this week.
• Russian crude export volumes sharply decline.
• European fuel markets face supply uncertainty.
• Ukraine's energy strategy intensifies pressure on Russia.

Pulse Analysis

The Druzhba pipeline, stretching over 4,000 kilometres from Russia to Central Europe, has long been a cornerstone of the continent’s energy infrastructure. Its recent shutdown, confirmed by Slovakia and Hungary, reflects heightened vulnerability amid the ongoing Russia‑Ukraine conflict. While official statements cite technical issues, analysts link the disruption to targeted sabotage and heightened security measures, underscoring how geopolitical tensions can swiftly translate into physical interruptions of critical supply lines.

Concurrently, a wave of drone attacks has struck at least three major Russian refineries, including facilities near Moscow and in the Urals. Preliminary damage assessments suggest a combined capacity loss of roughly 1.5 million barrels per day, curtailing Russia’s ability to process domestically produced crude. This not only dents export volumes but also pressures the Russian domestic market, potentially leading to fuel shortages and price spikes that could reverberate through global oil benchmarks.

For European energy planners, the twin shocks of pipeline blockage and refinery damage accelerate the push toward diversification. Countries are scrambling to secure alternative sources, from increased LNG imports to accelerated renewable projects, while market participants brace for heightened price volatility. The episode also signals a broader strategic shift: energy security is increasingly intertwined with geopolitical maneuvering, compelling policymakers to reassess long‑term reliance on Russian hydrocarbons and to invest in more resilient, multi‑source supply chains.

Druzhba Flows Halted, More Russian Refineries Under Attack

Image: Ukraine, Flags, Russia, Chess, Board · Photo credit: Dilok Klaisataporn/Shutterstock

Slovakia and Hungary have reported a disruption of Russian crude supplies via the Druzhba pipeline as Moscow and Kyiv continue to trade blows against each other’s energy sectors, with a number of Russian refineries also hit in drone attacks this week.