Serbia’s only oil refinery in Pancevo may be forced to temporarily suspend operations due to critically low water levels in the Danube River, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said.
The potential shutdown represents a significant escalation in the operational impact of the ongoing drought, which has already severely disrupted shipping and agriculture across the region.
Vucic highlighted the development as part of broader energy challenges facing the country.
With the Pancevo facility being the nation's sole source of refined petroleum products, any interruption in its output could tighten domestic fuel supplies and increase reliance on imports.
The refinery's dependence on the river for cooling and logistics makes it particularly vulnerable to the current hydrological conditions.
The Danube's water levels have plummeted to their lowest point in three decades, creating a cascading effect on regional infrastructure.