Hungary Will Seek Solution to Ukraine Oil Transit Impasse by September, Minister Says
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Hungary is poised to address a critical dispute with Ukraine regarding the transit of Russian oil by September, as stated by an aide to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The urgency of this matter stems from concerns over a potential energy crisis that could arise from the ongoing tensions.
Background of the Dispute
The friction between Hungary and Ukraine escalated when Gergely Gulyás, Orbán’s chief of staff, accused Kyiv of “blackmailing” Budapest by obstructing the transfer of Russian crude oil through its territory. This blockade follows Ukraine's recent sanctions against Lukoil, Russia's largest non-state oil company, which has significant implications for Hungary's energy supply.
Hungary primarily relies on the Druzhba, or “Friendship,” pipeline for its crude oil imports, which traverses Belarus and Ukraine. Approximately half of Hungary's oil supply comes from Lukoil, making the current situation particularly precarious for the nation.
Regional Reactions
The sanctions and subsequent oil supply disruptions have sparked outrage among officials in Slovakia and Hungary. Both countries have expressed that the halted deliveries pose a serious threat to their energy security. In response, they have threatened legal action against Ukraine unless Lukoil's oil deliveries are reinstated.
During a recent press conference, Gulyás reiterated the severity of the situation, stating that Ukraine's actions were “inexplicably blackmailing” Hungary and Slovakia. He suggested that the blockade was a retaliatory measure against the two countries' “pro-peace stance” amid the ongoing conflict.
Hungary's Position
Orbán, known for his close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has diverged from other EU leaders by refusing to supply Ukraine with military aid. His government has consistently delayed or diluted efforts to impose sanctions on Russia, further complicating Hungary's position in the ongoing geopolitical landscape.
This week, Hungary announced its intention to seek intervention from the European Union regarding the blocked oil supplies. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has warned that Hungary may block reimbursements to EU countries for their military assistance to Ukraine until the oil transit issue is resolved.
Looking Ahead
Gulyás acknowledged the potential for fuel shortages due to the disruption of Lukoil deliveries but reassured the public that there was “no reason to panic” as Hungary still maintains reserves. However, he emphasized the necessity of finding a resolution by September.
“Hungary does not want to counter-blackmail Ukraine. We hope that the EU will help, but if not, we will need to look for other solutions,” Gulyás stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The EU had previously enacted sanctions on Russian oil imports in 2022 in response to Putin's invasion of Ukraine. However, exceptions were made for landlocked countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, allowing them additional time to secure alternative crude sources.
As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on diplomatic efforts to resolve the impasse and ensure energy security for Hungary and its neighbors.