Why were Druzhba pipeline flows halted?

Reports cite damage and disputes that stopped flows on 27 January. Political tension has grown as leaders trade blame over restart timing. Without confirmed repair and transit terms, operators cannot resume safely. Until transparent updates arrive, refiners must plan for alternative routes and draw on stocks to keep supply moving.

What is the Adria pipeline and can it replace Druzhba?

The Adria pipeline moves seaborne crude from Croatia to inland markets. It can offset some lost Druzhba volumes, but capacity, scheduling, and quality differences limit a full replacement. Short bursts are manageable if nominations line up, yet a prolonged shift would raise transport costs and pressure inland product prices.

Could German fuel prices rise because of this disruption?

Yes, especially in southern regions linked to Central European supply. If nearby refineries cut runs, wholesale diesel and gasoline premia can firm. The size and duration depend on storage, alternative imports, and how quickly the Druzhba pipeline restarts. A short disruption may be modest, while longer delays raise inflation risks.

What should investors in Germany watch next?

Track official statements on repair progress and transit terms, refinery turnaround schedules, and inland diesel differentials. Also monitor EURUSD and Brent spreads, since currency and crude structure shape landed costs. Clear evidence of a restart would cool margins and prices. Prolonged uncertainty supports elevated cracks and logistics costs.

Does this change EU energy policy now?

Not immediately, but it spotlights pipeline exemptions for Hungary and Slovakia and the need for reliable transit. If disruptions persist, Brussels may revisit coordination on storage, product inventories, and diversification. Policy clarity helps reduce risk premia, while uncertainty can keep regional premia and inflation pressure elevated.

Global Market Insights

Hungary, Slovakia Seek Oil via Croatia as Fico Blasts Kyiv – February 18

ByDanny Kontos February 18, 2026February 18, 2026

The Druzhba pipeline has been offline since 27 January, forcing Hungary and Slovakia to seek crude via Croatia’s Adria pipeline. Prime Minister Robert Fico accused Ukraine of delaying restarts, adding political heat to a supply problem that can ripple into Germany. We explain how the Druzhba pipeline outage shifts refinery runs, raises near term costs, and influences EU energy policy. For German consumers and SMEs, the focus is on diesel, logistics, and inflation risks in the weeks ahead.