The transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline via Ukraine to Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which has been interrupted for several days, could soon resume. According to its own information, the Hungarian oil and gas group MOL has taken over the payment of the transit fees to Ukraine. Russian pipeline monopolist Transneft had said its payments had been rejected due to EU sanctions.
According to the MTI news agency, MOL said there were currently “no immediate supply problems” due to the situation, as there were sufficient reserves “for several weeks”.
No more deliveries since August 4th
According to Russian information, the Ukrainian company Ukrtransnafta completely stopped pumping oil to Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia through the southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline on August 4. In April, EU countries agreed on a gradual oil embargo against Russia.
However, due to their heavy reliance on Russian supplies, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia have implemented an extensive exemption from supplies through the Druzhba pipeline.
MOL: Will provide enough fuel
MOL acknowledged that the temporary outages of refineries in Austria (Schwechat) and the Czech Republic – and the closure of its own refinery near Budapest for overhaul – had an impact on the local fuel market due to increased demand.
The group also noted a 20 percent increase in sales in the overall market and a 50 percent increase in MOL stations recently. In any case, there will be enough fuel in the country, confirms MOL.
Price cap remains in effect
MOL maintains the limit of 50 liters per day and will contact the National Tax and Customs Service (NAV) to investigate possible abuse of the price cap of 480 forints (1.21 euros) per liter imposed on private vehicles with Hungarian license Plate.
MOL has begun scanning the license plates of customers paying the capped price and forwarding the information – “in full compliance with the law” – to customs with the aim of eradicating unauthorized motorists.
“Fill as much as you need”
“It is in our common interest that there is enough fuel for everyone,” said Peter Ratatics, MOL’s domestic director, calling for “solidarity and not panic buying”.
“We ask customers to fill up to 50 liters: if everyone buys only what they need, there will be enough fuel in the country,” he added.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
