Slovakia and Hungary issued threats: If not compromised, they will cut off Ukraine's electricity on Monday.
Electricity from Slovakia accounts for about 21% of Ukraine's total electricity imports (as of the end of 2025), while Hungary accounts for approximately 50% of Ukraine's total electricity imports.
The threat of power cuts by the two countries stems from Ukraine's suspension of Russian oil transit, which has disrupted energy supplies in Slovakia and Hungary. The two countries have indeed issued an "ultimatum," setting this Monday (February 23) as the deadline.
Slovak Prime Minister Fico announced on February 21 that if Ukraine does not resume oil transportation through the "Friendship" pipeline on Monday, Slovakia will stop its emergency electricity supply to Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán also stated that if the issue is not resolved, Hungary may follow suit and stop the power supply, and the two countries have been coordinating their actions.
Causes of the conflict: Interruption of the "Friendship" pipeline
The "Friendship" pipeline, which transports oil to Europe through Ukraine, was suspended since January 27. Both sides have different claims: Ukraine says it was damaged due to a Russian attack; while Slovakia and Hungary accuse Ukraine of delaying repairs and even intentionally using this opportunity to exert pressure.
Fico accused Ukraine of causing a loss of 500 million euros per year for Slovakia by stopping the gas supply, and used this as a reason to oppose the EU's 90 billion euro military loan to Ukraine.
Actual impact: The two countries have already stopped exporting diesel to Ukraine. Ukraine relies heavily on imported electricity to maintain stability, with about 18% of its electricity imports in February coming from Slovakia.
If the threat of power cuts is implemented, it would pose a severe test for Ukraine's already fragile energy system.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1857759309988864/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.