Pipeline taking Russian oil to Hungary reopens in April- Zelensky

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that a crucial oil pipeline, which transports Russian energy to Hungary and Slovakia via Ukrainian territory, is set to resume operations by the end of April. This pipeline was damaged in attacks attributed to Moscow, and its reopening signifies a step towards normalizing energy flows, albeit with a complex geopolitical backdrop.

The pipeline's functionality had been a significant point of friction between Ukraine and Hungary, particularly under the leadership of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Zelensky has consistently advocated for a complete cessation of Russian energy imports by all EU member states. Orban, who maintained a notably cordial relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin despite the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, recently suffered a significant electoral defeat, ending his 16-year tenure.

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As for the oil pipeline, as we promised, it will be repaired by the end of April — not completely, but enough for it to function

Despite the change in Hungarian leadership, with Magyar poised to take over, there remains a degree of alignment with Orban's previous stance on certain issues. Magyar, while promising a new political direction for Hungary, has expressed opposition to sending EU military aid to Ukraine and has been hesitant about fast-tracking Ukraine's accession to the European bloc.

President Zelensky has extended an invitation for dialogue with the new Hungarian Prime Minister, expressing Ukraine's readiness for a meeting. This diplomatic overture aims to address ongoing concerns and foster cooperation, even as underlying disagreements on key aspects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict persist. The reopening of the pipeline, therefore, occurs amidst a shifting, yet still delicate, regional political landscape.

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We are ready for a meeting. Whenever the new prime minister is ready