Zelensky Accuses EU Allies of ‘Blackmail’ in Dispute Over Russian Oil Pipeline
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused some European allies of trying to pressure Kyiv into reopening a key pipeline that carries Russian oil to Central Europe. The dispute centers on the Soviet-era Druzhba pipeline, which transports crude oil to Hungary and Slovakia through Ukrainian territory.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the pipeline was damaged during Russian air strikes in January and has not yet been repaired. However, Zelensky argues that restoring the route now would contradict the broader sanctions campaign aimed at weakening Moscow’s economy.
Zelensky: Reopening Pipeline Equals Weakening Sanctions
Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelensky warned that allowing Russian oil to flow again through Ukraine could undermine international pressure on Russia. He said forcing Ukraine to resume the transit of Russian crude while Europe maintains sanctions elsewhere sends conflicting signals.
The Ukrainian leader stressed that Kyiv cannot support policies that indirectly help Moscow’s economy during the ongoing war.
Hungary Blocks EU Support for Ukraine
The disagreement has intensified because Hungary relies heavily on Russian energy supplies. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government has reportedly blocked new European Union sanctions on Russia and delayed approval of a major €90 billion financial package intended to support Ukraine.
Budapest has linked its position to the pipeline issue, urging Ukraine to restore the flow of oil as soon as possible.
Some EU officials worry that the dispute could influence Hungary’s upcoming elections in April, where Orbán has made criticism of Ukraine a central political theme.
EU Requests Inspection of Pipeline Damage
European officials have urged Kyiv to repair the pipeline quickly and allow technical inspectors to examine the damaged infrastructure. Brussels fears prolonged disruption could worsen energy uncertainty in parts of Central Europe.
Zelensky, however, insists that the issue is political rather than technical, warning that Ukraine should not be pressured into decisions that contradict the sanctions regime.
Ukraine Offers Drone Partnership to the US
During the same briefing, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s rapidly growing drone industry. He described the country’s interceptor drone technology as “Ukraine’s oil,” suggesting it has become a valuable strategic resource.
The Ukrainian government is proposing a potential $50 billion joint drone production partnership with the United States. Zelensky said Washington has shown strong interest, particularly as many countries seek defenses against Iranian-designed drones used in conflicts.
Middle East War Could Affect Ukraine Aid
Zelensky also expressed concern that the widening conflict in the Middle East may divert U.S. attention and resources away from Ukraine. He warned that delays in weapons deliveries or reductions in defensive supplies could occur if Washington prioritizes developments in the region.
Despite these concerns, the Ukrainian leader reiterated that easing sanctions on Russia would only strengthen Moscow and weaken global efforts to end the war.
