Russian Oil Resumes Through Druzhba Pipeline, EU Loan to Kyiv Greenlit
Russian oil resumed flowing through the Druzhba pipeline's Ukrainian section, allowing Hungary to lift its veto on a critical €90 billion EU loan for Kyiv. This development followed a halt caused by a drone strike. Hungary's decision marks a significant political turn, also influenced by its internal political changes.
On Wednesday, Russian oil once again coursed through the Ukrainian section of the Druzhba pipeline after a protracted halt due to a drone strike, officials reported. This move has prompted Hungary to withdraw its veto on a €90 billion EU loan vital for Ukraine, a country amid ongoing conflict.
According to Hungarian oil giant MOL, Ukrainian authorities confirmed the resumption of Russian crude oil deliveries via the pipeline. The company anticipates that the first batch of crude will reach Hungary and Slovakia by Thursday.
Pumping recommenced at 0935 GMT, as per industry insiders, and shortly afterwards, EU ambassadors convening in Brussels sanctioned the loan. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy applauded the EU's swift decision, underscoring that support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia are paramount to incentivizing an end to the war. The expedited loan approval follows Hungary's internal political shifts, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban's electoral defeat paving the way for EU financial aid to Kyiv.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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