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Orban accuses Ukraine of energy blockade
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has ordered soldiers to guard key energy facilities, alleging Ukraine is deliberately disrupting oil supplies to pressure Budapest and Bratislava.
Orban claimed Kyiv imposed an "oil blockade" by delaying the reopening of the Druzhba pipeline, which transports Russian crude to Hungary and Slovakia. The pipeline has been shut since January 27 following Russian airstrikes, though Orban described the closure as politically motivated.
Pipeline dispute escalates tensions
Ukraine has not responded to Orban's accusations, which critics say are aimed at rallying domestic support ahead of April elections. His Fidesz party trails in polls after 16 years in power.
Kyiv has targeted Russian oil infrastructure in recent weeks, including a drone strike on a Druzhba pumping station that forced Russia to reduce daily crude intake by 250,000 barrels, according to Reuters.
EU assures alternative oil supplies
An EU spokesperson stated Hungary and Slovakia face no immediate oil shortages, as Croatia is supplying non-Russian crude via the Adria pipeline. The pipeline has capacity to meet both countries' needs, said European Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen.
Despite assurances, Hungary vetoed a €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine this week, citing the pipeline dispute. Orban, viewed as Moscow's closest EU ally, has also blocked new sanctions against Russia.
Military measures announced
In a social media video, Orban outlined security steps after a Defence Council meeting. Troops will secure energy sites, police will patrol power stations, and drones are banned near the Ukrainian border.
"The Ukrainian government is pressuring Hungary and Slovakia through an oil blockade and preparing further disruptions," Orban said.
Ukraine has not commented on the allegations, nor indicated plans to target Hungarian infrastructure.
Energy crisis deepens in Ukraine
Kyiv faces severe power shortages after intensified Russian attacks on its energy grid. Increased imports from Europe-including Hungary and Slovakia-have been threatened with suspension until the Druzhba pipeline reopens.
