Hungary has blocked a proposed €90 billion loan for Ukraine, with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán linking support to the restoration of Russian oil deliveries via the Druzhba pipeline. The move threatens to delay critical funding for Kyiv at a decisive stage of the war.
Speaking in Brussels, Orbán said Hungary would not back any financial package for Ukraine until oil supplies resume.
“We will help Ukraine when we have our oil back,”
he said, arguing that current disruptions are harming Hungary’s energy security.
The loan is seen as essential for Ukraine, which is seeking long-term financing to sustain its war effort through 2026 and 2027. However, Budapest has refused to approve the mechanism required to release the funds, effectively stalling the package at the EU level.
The dispute centers on the Druzhba pipeline, a key route for Russian crude oil into Central Europe. The infrastructure was damaged during Russian strikes in January, with Hungary accusing Kyiv of delaying repairs on the section crossing Ukrainian territory.
Orbán has repeatedly framed the issue in blunt terms, previously stating: “No oil, no money.” His position reflects a broader strategy of leveraging EU decisions to secure national energy interests amid ongoing tensions with Brussels.
The stance has triggered sharp criticism from European leaders. Petteri Orpo accused Orbán of using Ukraine as a political tool during an election campaign, warning that such actions undermine previously agreed commitments within the EU.
The deadlock highlights deep divisions within Europe over how to balance support for Ukraine with domestic economic pressures, particularly energy security. Any prolonged delay in funding could complicate Kyiv’s financial planning and strain Western unity at a critical moment in the conflict.