BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union is offering Ukraine financial and technical assistance to repair a damaged oil pipeline crucial for supplying Hungary, in a bid to break a deadlock over a proposed €90 billion ($106 billion) aid package for Ukraine. The move comes as tensions escalate between Ukraine and Hungary, with Budapest blocking both the aid package and new sanctions against Russia.
The Druzhba pipeline, which crosses Ukrainian territory, halted deliveries to Hungary and Slovakia in January due to damage Ukrainian officials attribute to Russian drone attacks. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán alleges Ukraine deliberately disrupted supplies – a claim Kyiv vehemently denies.
“The Ukrainians have welcomed and accepted this offer,” European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a joint statement Tuesday. “European experts are available immediately.”
The pipeline’s disruption has triggered a political crisis. Orbán has repeatedly vetoed the EU aid package, stating bluntly, “If there’s no oil, there’s no money.” He insists Ukraine must reopen the pipeline to receive the funds.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while opposing the transit of Russian energy through his country due to its role in funding Russia’s war effort, stated Ukraine is “undertaking all possible efforts to repair the damage and restore operations.” He emphasized the urgency of receiving the EU funds, particularly a first tranche needed next month.
The EU’s offer reflects growing frustration with Orbán’s obstructionism. Leaders accuse him of violating the principle of “sincere cooperation” among member states.
Orbán, facing elections next month where he trails in polls, has centered his campaign on portraying Zelenskyy and von der Leyen as threats to Hungary’s security, falsely claiming they seek to draw Hungary into the war.
The EU largely reduced its reliance on Russian oil and gas after Russia weaponized its energy supplies in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine. However, Hungary and Slovakia received exemptions due to their landlocked positions and limited alternative supply options.
The situation highlights the complex geopolitical challenges facing the EU as it attempts to support Ukraine while navigating the divergent interests of its member states. The outcome of the pipeline repair and the subsequent release of aid will be closely watched as Ukraine continues to fight for its survival.
