EU Considers Trade Measures to Address Remaining Russian Oil Imports via Druzhba Pipeline

The European Union is examining new trade measures aimed at targeting the remaining imports of Russian crude oil, with particular focus on the Druzhba pipeline, which continues to supply Hungary and Slovakia. These potential actions are being weighed in light of the need to fully phase out Russian oil imports as part of ongoing efforts to reduce economic dependence on Moscow.

The Druzhba pipeline has remained a point of concern, as it continues to facilitate oil deliveries to two EU member states. The proposed measures could be enacted if these imports are not voluntarily phased out by the end of the established timeline. The measures would represent a significant escalation in the EU's strategy to curtail Russian energy inflows.

A key factor in the EU's evaluation is the alignment of potential actions with U.S. policy positions. The United States has expressed support for the EU’s efforts to isolate Russian oil, and there is an understanding that any measures implemented must be consistent with U.S. sanctions framework. This alignment ensures that the actions taken by the EU do not inadvertently undermine broader transatlantic efforts to deter Russian economic activity.

The proposed measures are part of a broader coordinated strategy to reduce reliance on Russian energy sources. The EU has already implemented several rounds of sanctions targeting oil exports, with exemptions granted to certain member states for a limited period. The current review represents a contingency plan should these exceptions not be withdrawn voluntarily.

Hungary and Slovakia have been granted temporary exemptions allowing continued oil imports via the Druzhba pipeline. The EU is now assessing whether these exemptions are being used in a manner that aligns with the overarching objective of complete phaseout. Any deviation from expected timelines could trigger the implementation of the new trade measures.

The timeline for these potential actions is set within the context of the current date, September 2025, underscoring the urgency of the phaseout process. The EU’s ability to enforce compliance across all member states remains a critical factor in the success of its energy independence goals.

The implementation of such measures could have immediate implications for the flow of Russian crude into Central Europe. It also signals a shift from voluntary compliance to enforceable trade restrictions, reflecting the EU’s commitment to ensuring that all member states align with the collective strategy.

In summary, the EU is actively considering targeted trade measures against the remaining Russian oil imports, with the Druzhba pipeline as a primary focus. These measures could be enacted if voluntary phaseout efforts by Hungary and Slovakia do not meet expected deadlines, and they are being evaluated with input and alignment from the U.S. sanctions framework. The timeline for implementation remains tied to the September 2025 benchmark.

{}