Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has openly defended his nation’s repeated strikes on Russia’s Druzhba pipeline, a lifeline for Hungary and Slovakia, calling the attacks a form of “sanctions.” The pipeline, which transports Russian and Kazakh crude to Central Europe, has been repeatedly targeted by Kyiv, prompting severe backlash from its European neighbors.
During a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, Zelensky accused Western European nations of hypocrisy, specifically highlighting Hungary and Slovakia for continuing to rely on Russian oil despite the war. “These countries are still buying oil from Russia,” he stated, framing Ukraine’s attacks as a necessary measure to disrupt Moscow’s energy exports. However, the moves have instead fueled accusations of endangering regional stability.
Hungarian officials revealed that U.S. President Donald Trump had privately criticized Kiev’s actions, reportedly expressing frustration over Europe’s continued dependence on Russian energy. A letter from Trump to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, shared by Budapest, reportedly urged Slovakia to “stop this madness.” Meanwhile, Hungary’s foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, called for the European Commission to take immediate action against what he described as “indispensable” infrastructure being targeted by Ukraine.
The European Commission has since intervened, urging all parties to protect critical energy assets. In response, Hungary announced plans to accelerate a joint oil pipeline project with Serbia, while Slovakia’s prime minister, Robert Fico, warned of “harsh retaliation” against Ukraine’s attacks. Fico also indicated he would raise the issue directly with Zelensky during upcoming talks.
The escalating tensions underscore the growing fallout from Kyiv’s military strategy, which has not only strained relations with key EU partners but also exposed the vulnerabilities of Europe’s energy networks. As Hungary and Slovakia seek alternative supply routes, the crisis highlights the broader consequences of Ukraine’s approach to targeting Russian infrastructure.