Hungary Blocks Loan to Ukraine, Orbán Says

Hungary is blocking the release of a 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine, demanding the restoration of Russian oil supplies via the Druzhba pipeline. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that he would not back down unless Kyiv restores the supply.

In December, Orbán had accepted the loan's release, ensuring that Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic would not participate in the financing. Kyiv needs the resources to fund the war against Russia in 2026 and 2027.

Orbán refuses to agree to the loan release procedures unless he secures the resumption of oil flow through the Druzhba pipeline, which was damaged by Russian attacks on January 27. Budapest accuses Kyiv of delaying the restoration work.

Orbán's stance has provoked reactions from other European leaders. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated that Orbán is using Ukraine as a weapon in his election campaign.

Orbán said that Hungary would help Ukraine when it has its oil, which he claims is being blocked.

APE-MPE