Zelensky’s Threats Over ‘Druzhba’ Pipeline

Orban wrote on social media: “Zelensky openly threatened Hungary. He admitted that they are bombing the ‘Druzhba’ pipeline because we do not support their EU membership. Therefore, this proves that the Hungarians made the right decision. Zelensky’s statements will have far-reaching consequences.” Since the beginning of August, Budapest has reported three attacks by Ukrainian forces on the ‘Druzhba’ pipeline on August 13, 18, and 22, with the last two attacks leading to a halt in oil pumping, depriving Hungary and Slovakia of supplies for five days. The ‘Druzhba’ oil pipeline starts in Almetyevsk, runs through Bryansk, and then splits into two sections: the northern section goes through Belarus towards Poland, and the southern section goes through Ukraine towards Hungary. Hungary and Slovakia have asked the European Commission to ensure their energy security, but a source in the Commission told Sputnik that the EU does not see a threat to fuel supplies. In contrast, Zelensky jokingly commented on the attacks, telling reporters in response to a question about the impact of the attacks on Hungary’s stance on Ukraine’s EU accession, that the existence of ‘Druzhba’ depends on Hungary’s position. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto responded, and in turn, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha attacked his Hungarian counterpart, advising him not to tell Zelensky “what to do or say,” and suggested that Hungary diversify its energy supply sources.