Zelenskyy: Damaged Pipeline Supplying Russian Oil to Hungary to Reopen in April

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday announced that a key pipeline transporting Russian oil through Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia, recently damaged during attacks by Moscow, will be restored to operational status before the end of April.

Speaking to reporters in Berlin, Zelensky explained that while repairs may not be fully completed, enough work will be done to allow the pipeline resume functioning.

The pipeline’s disruption has been a significant point of friction between Kyiv and Hungary, particularly with former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has maintained close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Zelensky has consistently urged European Union members to cut reliance on Russian energy, a stance that has clashed with Hungary’s position under Orban. The Hungarian leader, who recently lost re-election after 16 years in power, had made Ukraine a focal point of his campaign, portraying Kyiv as unfriendly toward Hungarian interests.

His successor, Magyar, has signaled a shift in domestic politics but remains cautious on Ukraine-related policies. He has opposed sending European Union military aid to Kyiv and does not support fast-tracking Ukraine’s membership into the bloc.

Zelensky, however, has expressed willingness to engage with the incoming leader, confirming that Ukraine is open to dialogue. He noted that he had already extended congratulations to Magyar shortly after the election results were announced and reiterated his readiness for talks at any time.

Speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Zelensky emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic engagement as the region navigates both political transitions and ongoing security challenges.