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Ukraine to Resume Oil Flow via Druzhba Pipeline by April 13, Says Szijjártó
Ukraine plans to resume oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline by April 13, crucial for Hungary's energy needs. Hungary's support for a €90 billion EU loan hinges on this development.
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Photo: Ukrainska Pravda EN
At a glance
- Szijjártó predicts Ukraine will restart Druzhba oil flow in April.
- Hungary's government ties EU loan support to oil supply resumption.
- Concerns raised about Ukraine's EU accession and NATO implications.
- The EU plans to assist in the repair of the damaged Druzhba pipeline.
- Hungary's blockade of EU aid has prompted criticism from other member states.
Why it matters
Szijjártó's remarks point to the impact of financial strain on Ukraine's energy decisions and highlight Hungary's role in EU negotiations concerning aid. The potential resumption of oil supplies could have significant implications for Ukraine's economic stability amidst the ongoing conflict.
https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2026/03/21/8026580/
Resumption of Oil Flow
Hungry Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced that Ukraine is set to resume oil shipments via the Druzhba pipeline on April 13. He attributed this decision to Ukraine's financial difficulties, which are impacting Hungary's energy requirements.
Hungary's Position on EU Support
Szijjártó indicated that Hungary will not support a €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine unless oil shipments through the Druzhba pipeline are reinstated. This aligns with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's position that Hungary's future decisions regarding support for Ukraine depend on the operational status of the pipeline.
Financial Strain and Future Concerns
The implications of Szijjártó's statements are significant. He warned that Ukraine's financial resources may deplete more quickly than Hungary's oil supplies. This comes amid a European energy crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and related EU support initiatives.
Geopolitical Considerations
Szijjártó expressed concerns about the potential for Ukraine's EU accession. He suggested that admitting a nation currently in conflict could provoke increased NATO involvement and escalate risks of broader conflict. His comments reflect the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Ukraine's EU aspirations.
Reactions from EU Leaders
Hungary's position has drawn criticism from other EU leaders. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned Orbán's obstruction of the EU loan, labeling it as a serious breach of solidarity among member states.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU's commitment to financial support for Ukraine, despite Hungary's objections. The EU aims to repair damage to the Druzhba pipeline and expedite the restoration of oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia.
This situation underscores the intricate interplay of energy requirements, financial assistance, and geopolitical strategy in the region.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda EN
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