Pipeline Politics: The Resumption of Russian Oil to Hungary

Ukraine has notified Hungarian oil company MOL that Russian crude deliveries will resume through the Druzhba pipeline. This move may unblock a substantial 90 billion euro loan for Kyiv, following a suspension due to pipeline damage from a Russian drone strike.

The Druzhba pipeline has become a politically sensitive infrastructure piece in Europe. Accusations flew between outgoing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Kyiv regarding repair delays, which Ukraine denies. Industry sources announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the repairs' completion.

Hungary's newly elected leader, Peter Magyar, urged President Zelenskiy to make the pipeline operational and Russia to resume oil shipments. This anticipated resumption could reopen discussions among EU member states on approving the loan, crucial for financing Ukraine as it counters Russia's ongoing aggression.