Slovakian Truckers Block Ukraine Border, Causing 30km Jam in Hungary
This afternoon, Slovakian carriers, in violation of EU legislation, initiated an announced blockade of truck traffic at the border crossing near Uzhhorod. The Slovak Road Carrier Association (UNAS) blocked the Vyshne Nemecke - Uzhhorod border crossing.
Consequently, the Hungarian side is now facing significant border issues, with a 30km queue forming. Truck drivers are seeking alternative routes around the blocked checkpoint.
'We are blocking the border because we want our Slovak carriers to not lose their jobs,' notes the Slovak Road Carrier Association in their statement.
The Slovakian police reported that on the territory of the Hungarian Republic, there are approximately 1000 trucks forming a nearly 30km queue, leading to Hungary restricting the entry of trucks heading to Ukraine via the Zahony border crossing. Due to the same reason, a column of trucks formed at the Milhost border crossing.
"According to information from Slovakian border guards, at 16:05, the blocking of truck traffic through the Vyshne Nemecke border crossing adjacent to the Uzhhorod crossing was initiated on the Slovakian side. The action, whose duration is currently unknown, is carried out by representatives of the Slovak Road Carrier Association,' reported the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.
The Slovakian blockaders have pledged not to obstruct the transport of humanitarian aid, other essential cargo, live animals, fuel, and refrigerated goods. Other cargoes are expected to be allowed to pass at a rate of four trucks per hour.
Entry into Slovakia is promised not to be blocked, and the protesters have committed not to restrict the movement of passenger cars and buses.
Earlier, the Slovakian Road Carrier Association announced an indefinite blockade of border checkpoints starting from December 1, with the same demands as the Polish border blockers.
Recall that on November 6, Polish truckers began an indefinite protest at the border. Among the main demands to the Ukrainian authorities is the reinstatement, by June 30, 2024, of the permitting practice for Ukrainian carriers, cancelled by the agreement with the European Union. Protesters demand the annulment of the agreement and the restoration of the permitting regime from January 1.