Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has reiterated his position regarding the Ukrainian oil pipeline “Druzhba,” which has sustained damage from Russian strikes. His comments come in the context of ongoing discussions with European leaders about the pipeline’s status and its implications for financial support to Ukraine.
In a recent video statement, Orban emphasized that Hungary’s stance remains unchanged: if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wishes to secure financial aid from Brussels, he must allow the reopening of the “Druzhba” pipeline. Orban stated, “If there is no oil, there is no money,” highlighting the economic ramifications of the pipeline’s current blockage.
Orban’s remarks were made following a conversation with the President of the European Council and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, where he expressed concerns that the oil blockade is being used to influence Hungary’s domestic elections in favor of the opposition party, “Tisa.” He characterized the situation as straightforward, reiterating the link between oil supply and financial support.
According to an EU official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the leaders of the European Commission and the European Council had a lengthy discussion with Orban on March 17. The official noted that the message was clear: the President of the European Council expects Hungary to honor its commitments made within the Council, particularly regarding the €90 billion aid package for Ukraine.
On the same day, the European Commission expressed optimism about progress in unblocking the €90 billion loan for Ukraine, potentially ahead of the upcoming EU leaders’ summit scheduled for March 19-20. This loan has been stalled, largely due to Hungary’s objections, which are tied to the status of the “Druzhba” pipeline.
President Zelensky also communicated to EU leaders that Ukraine is willing to permit European experts to inspect the “Druzhba” pipeline, following the damage inflicted by Russian attacks. He accepted the EU’s offer of technical assistance for infrastructure repair, indicating that restoration work is nearing completion and that the pipeline could be operational again in approximately six weeks.
EU officials have indicated that the identification of an expert from the EU to travel to Ukraine for the pipeline inspection is currently underway. This expert will not represent Hungary or Slovakia to ensure an impartial assessment of the situation.
Previous reports from EU diplomats suggested that the unblocking of the €90 billion loan for Ukraine is contingent upon the restoration of the “Druzhba” pipeline or at least the acceptance of European experts for an evaluation of its condition.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has reaffirmed his position regarding the 'Druzhba' oil pipeline, linking its reopening to Ukraine's access to EU financial aid. As discussions continue among European leaders, Ukraine has agreed to allow inspections of the pipeline, which has been damaged by Russian attacks, in hopes of securing necessary support.