The Hungarian Secretary of State for Energy, Gábor Csepek, is en route to Kyiv to discuss the prompt resumption of the Druzhba oil pipeline. This initiative aims to assess the pipeline’s condition and facilitate its operational revival.
Csepek indicated that the Hungarian delegation’s discussions will extend beyond the Ukrainian government to include representatives from the European Commission regarding the pipeline’s restoration. He emphasized, “This oil belongs to Hungary; it is not subject to EU or US sanctions. It is ours.”
Alongside Csepek, the delegation comprises experts from the oil industry, a government leader with international relations experience, and an energy market analyst.
Prior to their departure to Kyiv, the Hungarian team engaged in talks in Bratislava with Slovak energy market representatives and government officials.
The discussions surrounding the Druzhba pipeline have been contentious. In late February, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed their disagreement with claims that technical issues prevent the pipeline’s operation. Orbán noted that Hungary and Slovakia are advocating for the establishment of an investigative commission and have requested access to the site from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Hungarian officials are working to revive the Druzhba oil pipeline, emphasizing its ownership and seeking collaborative discussions with Ukraine and the EU. The situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding energy infrastructure in the region.