Croatia Offers Pipeline Solution to Two Landlocked Nations

Croatia is offering a lifeline to two neighboring countries facing an energy crisis, proving that international cooperation can solve even complex logistical challenges.

The Druzhba pipeline, which supplies oil to Hungary and Slovakia, stopped flowing on January 27 after sustaining damage that Ukraine blamed on a Russian drone strike. Both countries suddenly needed a new source for the oil that keeps their economies moving.

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic announced his country is ready to help. The Adria pipeline, which runs through Croatia, can serve as an alternative route to deliver oil supplies to both landlocked nations.

"Croatia is here as a neighbor, partner and friend to ensure the energy security and smooth functioning of the economies of both Hungary and Slovakia," Plenkovic said. His government is already in talks with Hungarian and Slovakian officials, plus the European Commission, to make the plan work.

The numbers show this isn't just a temporary fix. The Adria pipeline has the capacity to transport up to 15 million tonnes of oil every year, which is exactly enough to fully meet the combined needs of both countries.

Pipeline operator Janaf confirmed the solution is already in motion. One cargo of non-Russian crude was being unloaded for Hungarian refiner MOL Group this week. Seven more shipments are scheduled to arrive by April.

The Ripple Effect

This quick response shows how regional partnerships can prevent energy disruptions from becoming economic disasters. When one supply route fails, having neighbors ready to step in with functioning infrastructure makes all the difference.

The Croatian solution also demonstrates how existing pipelines can be repurposed to meet urgent needs. The Adria pipeline wasn't originally built for this purpose, but its strategic location and capacity make it the perfect backup plan.

For Hungary and Slovakia, this means businesses can keep operating, people can heat their homes, and transportation networks can continue running without major interruptions. Energy security matters because it touches every part of daily life.

Sometimes the best solutions come from cooperation, not competition.