Hungary Accuses Brussels of Energy Blockade Amidst Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Hungary's foreign minister claims that the European Commission is behind the blockage of oil supplies from Russia via Ukraine, hinting at a Brussels-Kyiv collusion. The conflict highlights the EU's push to reduce dependency on Russian energy. The southern pipeline branch still carries Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary.

Hungary's foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, stated on Saturday that the European Commission's refusal to mediate an oil supply dispute between Russia and Ukraine indicates Brussels is behind the stoppage.

The dispute arose after Ukraine placed Russian oil producer Lukoil on a sanctions list in June, halting oil shipments to Slovak and Hungarian refineries. Hungary and Slovakia sought EU mediation, but the Commission declined, suggesting there's no threat to energy supplies as oil still flows through the Druzhba pipeline.

Szijjarto alleged political motives behind the European Commission's stance during a conservative festival, although he did not provide evidence. The Commission has supported Ukraine since Russia's 2022 invasion and has urged EU nations to reduce reliance on Russian energy. The situation remains tense as Hungary and Slovakia continue their opposition to Western military aid to Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)