Amid escalating tensions in Central Europe, Croatia’s Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar reaffirmed the country’s commitment to controlling the transit of Russian crude oil through its state-owned pipeline operator, JANAF. He highlighted JANAF’s role as a stable and reliable transit partner, which offers competitive tariffs and logistical advantages due to its shorter route to Central Europe. Despite the lower transportation costs associated with the Croatian pipeline system compared to the Druzhba pipeline, Minister Šušnjar noted that Russian crude remains more affordable than alternative supplies from within the European Union.
In his remarks, Minister Šušnjar urged EU partners, particularly Hungary and Slovakia, to lessen their dependence on Russian fossil fuels. He argued that such a move would not only demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine but also bolster broader European efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. Addressing Hungary’s request for Russian oil deliveries via JANAF, he emphasized Croatia’s sovereign decision-making. He clarified that while Croatia respects its obligations under international law and EU regulations, there is no legal obligation for the country to facilitate Russian oil transit. Croatia remains committed to adhering to existing EU and US sanctions and will not succumb to external pressure.
The issue of pipeline access has become increasingly contentious, with Hungary advocating for permission to transport Russian oil under what it claims are EU rules. However, the Croatian government has firmly rejected this demand, asserting that it will not authorize any deliveries to Hungary or Slovakia.
Tensions have further escalated following disruptions along the Druzhba route, leading Hungary’s government, under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, to suspend diesel and electricity deliveries to Ukraine. This standoff underscores the deepening regional divisions regarding energy policy and raises questions about the future of Russian energy supplies in Central Europe.
