Crisis on the “Friendship” pipeline. MOL asks for the release of reserves

MOL Group has asked the Hungarian Ministry of Energy to release strategic crude oil reserves, the company announced in a statement. Thanks to these activities, the company ensures security of supplies in the region.

As reported, since January 27, 2026, no crude oil has been delivered to Hungary and Slovakia via the Druzhba pipeline. To compensate for the shortfall, MOL began delivering crude oil by sea to its refineries.

It was indicated that due to the longer sea transport time, this delivery route is being gradually introduced. The first deliveries are expected to reach the port of Omišalj in Croatia in early March, and from there the crude oil will reach the MOL Group refinery within the next 5-12 days.

The company adds that if supplies from the east are not resumed in the coming days, Hungary may be forced to release approximately 250,000 tonnes first. tons of strategic oil reserves. For this purpose, MOL turned to the Hungarian Ministry of Energy, initiating the release of strategic oil reserves.

MOL informed that close contact with the government is also maintained in Slovakia to ensure a quick response to the situation.

The announcement indicated that the current situation does not threaten fuel supplies. The market is being served without disruption and MOL continues to operate as normal. (PAP Business)

mbi/ ana/