Tensions between the Hungarian government and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky have escalated following conflicting statements about the condition and possible restart of the Druzhba oil pipeline, a key route for transporting Russian crude oil to Central Europe.
Another clash over the future of the Druzhba pipeline
Speaking at a government briefing, Gergely Gulyás, head of the Hungarian Prime Minister’s Office, said the pipeline had not been destroyed and is in fact in excellent condition.
“The Druzhba oil pipeline is not only intact, it is in better condition than ever,” he said.
According to Gulyás, the issue of restarting oil deliveries is not primarily diplomatic. He noted that Hungary maintains formal diplomatic ties with Ukraine, pointing out that the country still has an embassy in Budapest.
In case you missed it: PM Orbán accuses Ukraine of “oil blockade” as Middle East tensions and V4 rifts deepen Hungary’s energy fears, and he even promised to present “evidence” regarding the condition of the Druzhba pipeline on Monday.
Hungary points to alternative routes and reserves
Hungarian officials say the country’s energy supply remains secure even if shipments through Druzhba do not resume immediately. Gulyás explained that Hungary currently has oil reserves sufficient for around 96 days. Combined with additional supply capacity through the Adria pipeline, he said the country could maintain energy security for a much longer period.
“In practical terms, we should think in terms of half a year or even longer,” he said. However, Gulyás criticised statements from the Croatian government regarding the Adria route, claiming their communication about the pipeline’s capacity has been inconsistent.
