Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that the damaged Druzhba oil pipeline, critical for energy supplies to Europe, could be operational again in four to six weeks. He acknowledged the necessity to resume operations, despite his personal preference to keep the pipeline inactive. This decision comes as Ukraine seeks to unlock a substantial €90 billion loan from Brussels, which Hungary is currently blocking due to political disagreements over energy imports from Russia.

Hungary and Slovakia, which remain heavily dependent on Russian energy imports, have accused Kyiv of politicizing the delay in repairs to the pipeline. This accusation underscores the complex energy dynamics in the region, particularly as European nations aim to reduce their reliance on Russian oil and gas amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. The resumption of the Druzhba pipeline's operations is seen as a pivotal moment for both Ukrainian energy infrastructure and broader European energy stability.

Additionally, Serhiy Koretsky, the head of Ukraine's state energy company Naftogaz, highlighted that repair crews are working on creating bypasses around the damaged sections of the pipeline. However, the work is hindered by the constant threat of Russian attacks, illustrating the precarious situation in which Ukrainian infrastructure operates. The ongoing conflict complicates not only repair efforts but also the larger narrative of energy security in Europe during a time of crisis.