Ukrainian Drone Attack Disrupts Oil Supply to Hungary
Ukrainian Drone Attack Temporarily Suspends Oil Transport to Hungary
Following a suspected drone attack from Ukraine, the transport of oil to Hungary on the Friendship pipeline had to be suspended. Repair work is already underway, with transit expected to resume later today, as confirmed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó on Tuesday. Pavel Sorokin, Deputy Energy Minister of the Russian Federation, later informed Minister Szijjártó that the Russian system operator had repaired the damage, and oil transport to Hungary on the Friendship pipeline had resumed.
The Friendship pipeline plays a vital role in transporting oil from eastern Russia to various European countries, including Ukraine, Belarus, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Germany. Its branch to Hungary also supplies neighboring countries such as Slovakia, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Germany. The pipeline has a total annual nominal capacity of up to 13 million tonnes, although the actual capacity is currently at 8 million tonnes. In case of any disruptions, reserves are in place to ensure at least 3 months of supply, according to reports from Final.
Minister Szijjártó expressed concern over the escalating conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the recent drone attack on the Friendship pipeline’s measuring station that led to the temporary suspension of oil delivery. He emphasized the importance of protecting energy infrastructure and condemned any attacks on facilities that supply Hungary.
In response to the situation, Minister Szijjártó urged for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for peace to secure the Hungarian energy infrastructure. He stated that Hungary, not being involved in the war, is focused on safeguarding its energy supply as a matter of sovereignty.
Efforts are being made to resume oil transport to Hungary on the Friendship pipeline, with repair work progressing swiftly to restore operations. The Minister remains optimistic that transit can resume smoothly and underscores the importance of ensuring the security and stability of the energy supply chain.
As the situation develops, the Hungarian government continues to monitor the progress and remains committed to safeguarding the country’s energy security in the midst of regional conflicts.
