Ukraine has responded to Hungarian claims regarding the suspension of oil transit from Russian group Lukoil, stating that the action is a lawful measure in line with its sanctions and not an attempt at blackmail. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak clarified the situation in a statement to Reuters on Friday.
The Ukrainian government recently implemented sanctions that block the transit of Russian crude oil through the Druzhba pipeline, which supplies Hungary and Slovakia. This decision has raised concerns about potential supply shortages in the two countries. In response, Hungary and Slovakia have appealed to the European Commission, arguing that an association agreement should prevent Ukraine from halting the oil transit.
On Monday, Hungary and Slovakia’s complaints were addressed to the European Commission, highlighting their concerns about the potential impact on their energy supplies.
Hungary’s prime ministerial aide had accused Ukraine of using the oil transit suspension as a form of blackmail against Hungary and Slovakia. However, Podolyak firmly rejected this accusation, asserting that the suspension is fully aligned with Ukrainian sanctions against Lukoil and is not intended to coerce or pressure the two countries.
Podolyak also criticized Hungary and Slovakia for their stance, suggesting that their focus on obtaining concessions from Russia is contrary to the European Union’s position in supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia. He urged the neighboring countries to advocate for the Kremlin to cease its attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, which has been severely impacted by Russian missile and drone strikes, leading to significant power outages across Ukraine.
In summary, Ukraine maintains that the transit suspension is a necessary measure in response to ongoing sanctions against Lukoil and does not constitute blackmail, as alleged by Hungary and Slovakia.
