Slovakia has expelled a Ukrainian and a Hungarian national following their suspected involvement in plotting an attack on the Druzhba gas pipeline, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok announced.
A Slovak citizen was also detained as part of the operation targeting potential threats to critical energy infrastructure.
In a video statement shared on Facebook, Estok commended Slovakia’s security forces for dismantling the rogue cell, describing it as a “potential risk to our security.” The suspects allegedly used drones to conduct surveillance of key facilities, including the Eustream Nagykapos gas compressor station, the Vojany power plant, and other energy infrastructure near the Slovak-Ukrainian border.
The operation, codenamed “Vostok,” led to the seizure of advanced equipment, including thermal cameras, night vision tools, and jamming devices, according to Magyar Nemzet. Estok highlighted Slovakia’s proactive approach, noting, “We’ve taken decisive and swift measures to prevent similar attacks and are preparing further actions to safeguard our territory.”
The suspects were expelled as part of an immediate deportation procedure. The Hungarian national was sent back to Hungary, while the Ukrainian suspect was handed over to Ukrainian authorities. These actions underscore ongoing cooperation between Hungarian and Slovak intelligence in addressing threats to critical infrastructure.
Estok also referenced previous sabotage incidents, including the Nord Stream pipeline damage, emphasizing Slovakia’s commitment to protecting its energy assets.
