Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced that Hungary will cease gas supplies to Ukraine unless the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline is restored. This statement follows reports of disruptions in oil transport due to Russian attacks, as noted by both Ukraine and the European Union.
In a recent video posted on Facebook, Orbán stated, “Gas supplies from Hungary to Ukraine will be gradually halted, and any remaining gas will be stored within Hungary.” He indicated that a proposal regarding this issue would be presented at the next government meeting.
Orbán accused Ukraine of obstructing the Druzhba pipeline’s operations, asserting that Hungary is currently defending itself against what he termed Ukrainian blackmail. He emphasized that the protected prices for fuel ensure that Hungarians pay the lowest prices at gas stations. He further stated, “We must move forward to break the oil blockade and ensure Hungary’s secure energy supply.”
The Prime Minister made it clear, “As long as Ukraine does not provide oil, it will not receive gas from Hungary.” He also pointed out that Ukraine’s actions against the southern gas pipeline, which supplies gas to Hungary, necessitate the creation of reserves. Consequently, Hungary will focus on filling its own gas storage facilities rather than those in Ukraine.
Orbán reiterated Hungary’s commitment to safeguarding its energy security, pledging to maintain protected fuel prices and reduced gas costs.
In related developments, the European Union welcomed Ukraine’s commitment to repair the damaged Druzhba pipeline within six weeks, following a proposal for financial resources and expert support to restore oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia. Orbán, speaking at the European Council in Brussels, stated that Hungary would not unblock any favorable decisions for Ukraine until the Druzhba pipeline resumes transporting Russian oil. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó remarked that Ukraine would be compelled to restore Russian oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline due to financial constraints.
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has announced plans to halt gas supplies to Ukraine unless the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline resumes. This decision follows accusations that Ukraine is obstructing oil transport, with Orbán emphasizing Hungary's need to secure its energy supplies.