Hungary Accuses EU of Favoring Ukraine, Raising Energy Security Concerns
Budapest has accused the European Commission of prioritizing Ukrainian interests over those of its member states, specifically citing concerns over the transit of Russian oil through Ukraine and its potential impact on energy security for Hungary and Slovakia. The dispute centers on the Druzhba pipeline, a key artery for Russian oil deliveries to Central Europe.
Dispute Over Druzhba Pipeline Transit
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that Ukraine is “deliberately threatening the energy supply of two EU countries for political reasons,” Reuters reported. According to Szijjártó, Ukraine’s actions violate existing agreements with the EU, which stipulate that Ukraine should not create energy problems for EU members. Oil has not flowed through the Druzhba pipeline since January 27, according to Hungarian data.
EU Commission Accusations
Szijjártó further criticized the European Commission, claiming it is acting as a “Ukrainian commission” and representing the interests of Ukraine even at the expense of its own member states. This accusation comes amid broader tensions between Ukraine and Hungary, particularly regarding arms shipments to Ukraine and Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership.
Political Context and Upcoming Elections
Hungary opposes sending arms to Ukraine and has been a vocal critic of Kyiv’s EU accession bid. Budapest believes that Ukraine is attempting to provoke an energy crisis in Hungary ahead of parliamentary elections, aiming to undermine the current government and bolster the opposition. Firstpost details this concern.
Broader EU-Ukraine Relations
The situation highlights the complex dynamics within the European Union as it navigates its relationship with Ukraine. The EU is currently engaged in a “charm offensive” in Ukraine, Reuters reports, but faces challenges in maintaining unity among its member states regarding support for Kyiv.
EU Funds and Hungary
Separately, tensions exist regarding EU funds allocated to Hungary. A senior legal advisor to Europe’s top court has advised that the EU may have acted unlawfully when it unfreezed €10 billion in funds for Hungary in December 2023, according to POLITICO. This decision was made on the eve of a crucial summit where EU cooperation with Hungary was needed to send aid to Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has called any attempt to claw back the funds “absurd.” The Financial Times also reported on this legal challenge.
Orbán has also criticized EU plans to fast-track Ukraine’s membership bid, describing it as “an open declaration of war” against Hungary.