Zelensky Accuses EU Partners of Pressuring Ukraine Over Russian Oil Pipeline
by admin on | 2026-03-15 11:43:58
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused some European Union partners of attempting to pressure Ukraine into restoring a major pipeline that transports Russian oil to parts of Europe.
The pipeline, known as Druzhba, has historically carried Russian crude through Ukraine to countries including Hungary and Slovakia. However, Ukraine says the infrastructure was damaged earlier this year during Russian air strikes and has not yet been repaired.
Zelensky argues that reopening the pipeline would undermine international sanctions imposed on Russia since the invasion of Ukraine.
Dispute Over Russian Oil Transit
Hungary, which relies heavily on Russian energy supplies, has been pushing for the restoration of oil flows through the pipeline. The country has also been blocking new European sanctions on Moscow as well as a proposed €90 billion financial package intended to support Ukraine.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has made criticism of Ukraine a key political theme ahead of upcoming elections in Hungary.
Some European officials have reportedly encouraged Kyiv to repair the pipeline and allow inspectors to assess the damage, believing that doing so could ease tensions within the EU.
Zelensky Rejects Pressure
Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelensky said forcing Ukraine to resume the transport of Russian oil would effectively weaken sanctions against Moscow.
He suggested that linking financial support or military assistance to the reopening of the pipeline amounts to political pressure on Ukraine.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine’s position is clear: allowing Russian oil to flow through its territory during an active war would contradict the broader effort to isolate Russia economically.
Wider Energy Debate
The disagreement comes as global energy markets face increased uncertainty due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
The United States recently issued a temporary waiver allowing certain Russian oil shipments to be sold internationally in order to ease global energy shortages. The move has drawn criticism from some European leaders and from Ukraine.
Zelensky warned that loosening sanctions could strengthen Russia economically rather than helping stabilize global markets.
Ukraine Promotes Drone Technology Cooperation
During the same briefing, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s growing expertise in drone warfare, particularly in intercepting Iranian-designed drones used by Russia in the conflict.
He described Ukraine’s drone technology as a strategic resource, comparing it to an important national commodity.
Ukraine has proposed a partnership with the United States to jointly produce interceptor drones, potentially worth around $50 billion.
Concern Over Shifting Global Attention
Zelensky also expressed concern that the expanding conflict in the Middle East could divert attention and military resources away from Ukraine.
He warned that increased US involvement in the region might slow deliveries of weapons and defensive equipment that Ukraine relies on.
Despite these concerns, the Ukrainian president stressed that maintaining strong international support remains critical for his country’s defence.
