BRUSSELS

The presidents of the European Commission and the European Council said Tuesday that efforts are underway to restore crude oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline after recent disruptions caused by strikes.

In a joint statement, Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa said renewed attacks on Jan. 27 led to the interruption of oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia.

They noted that EU institutions have held intensive discussions with member states and Ukrainian authorities to ensure the repair and resumption of oil transit.

"The EU has offered Ukraine technical support and funding. The Ukrainians have welcomed and accepted this offer. European experts are available immediately," the statement said.

The two leaders emphasized that ensuring energy security across the bloc remains a top priority.

"In this sense, the European Commission will continue to work with the concerned parties on alternative routes for the transit of non-Russian crude oil to the countries of Central and Eastern Europe," they added.

Ukraine halted deliveries of energy resources via the Druzhba pipeline after strikes, which Kyiv has blamed on Russia.

Hungary and Slovakia, however, have accused Ukraine of intentionally blocking shipments to gain political leverage, and have since decided to suspend diesel fuel supplies to Ukraine in response.