Hungary and Slovakia Oppose Twentieth EU Sanctions Package Against Russia, Conditioned on Resuming Oil Supplies via Druzhba

The governments of Hungary and Slovakia announced their opposition to the twentieth European sanctions package against Russia, conditioning their approval on Ukraine resuming oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline. Kyiv accused both countries of exerting political pressure at a critical juncture.

Hungarian Position Rejecting Sanctions

Prime Minister Orbán’s Statement

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán confirmed his principled rejection of the new sanctions package via platform X, writing explicitly: “No support for sanctions. The twentieth package will be rejected.”

Budapest’s Core Condition

Demand from the Hungarian Foreign Ministry

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó linked approval of the sanctions to the resumption of oil flow, stating: “Until Ukraine resumes transporting oil to Hungary and Slovakia via the Druzhba pipeline, we will not allow important decisions to be taken regarding Kyiv.”

Slovakia’s Position Supporting the Hungarian Stance

Bratislava’s Solidarity with Budapest

Slovakia aligned with Hungary’s position, endorsing the resumption of oil supplies through Ukrainian territory as a fundamental condition for approving any new sanctions against Moscow.

Focus on Economic Interests

Protecting Strategic Supplies

Both countries seek to ensure the continued flow of Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline—a vital source for securing their energy needs—considering this priority to outweigh political considerations.

Ukrainian Reaction

Accusations of Political Pressure

Kyiv characterized statements by Hungarian and Slovak officials as political blackmail attempts, particularly given the sensitive timing of adopting new European sanctions.

Diplomatic Challenges

Complicating the European Union’s Position

This stance poses a challenge for decision-makers in Brussels, as adopting the twentieth sanctions package requires unanimous approval from all 27 member states.