Story perspectives

Zelensky Denounces Pipeline Pressure as 'Blackmail' Amid EU Aid Crisis

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called pressure to reopen the Druzhba pipeline "blackmail."
The Druzhba pipeline is vital for Hungary and Slovakia and could take six weeks to repair.
Hungary and Slovakia have threatened to block EU aid to Ukraine unless the pipeline is reopened quickly.
The European Commission has proposed a damage assessment mission.
Zelensky opposes restoring Russian oil supplies if military support depends on this condition.

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Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called pressure to reopen the Druzhba pipeline "blackmail."
The Druzhba pipeline is vital for Hungary and Slovakia and could take six weeks to repair.
Hungary and Slovakia have threatened to block EU aid to Ukraine unless the pipeline is reopened quickly.
The European Commission has proposed a damage assessment mission.
Zelensky opposes restoring Russian oil supplies if military support depends on this condition.