Feb 20 • 21:31 UTC 🇳🇴 Norway Aftenposten

Orban threatens to block EU's billion loan to Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has threatened to veto the EU's massive loan to Ukraine unless the country reopens a vital oil pipeline from Russia.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has issued a strong warning indicating that Hungary may veto the European Union's proposed 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine. His threat is contingent upon Ukraine reopening the Druzhba oil pipeline, which is currently closed due to damage sustained during a Russian attack on January 27. This pipeline is critical as it runs from Russia through Ukraine to both Slovakia and Hungary, and its closure has raised concerns in the region regarding energy supplies and economic stability.

Orban is accusing Ukraine of impeding the reopening of the Druzhba pipeline, which has significant implications for both Hungary and Slovakia. On social media, he emphasized Hungary's reluctance to move forward with the EU's financial support until the oil flow is restored. This situation reflects growing tensions not only between Hungary and Ukraine but also highlights the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play involving energy security in Central Europe.

Additionally, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico has echoed Orban's sentiments. Earlier in the week, Fico threatened to halt the emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine if the Druzhba pipeline remains closed. He claimed that repair work on the pipeline had been completed, suggesting that the ball is now in Ukraine's court. The situation underscores a complex interplay of national interests, energy dependencies, and the impacts of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on regional politics, as both neighboring countries leverage their energy needs against Ukraine's financial dependence on EU support.

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