Story perspectives

Zelenskyy: Six Weeks to Restore Druzhba Oil Transit

3/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said restoring oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline will take about six weeks after severe damage from Russian strikes.
He told EU leaders Ukraine is committed to repairing the pipeline and has begun working on alternative solutions.
Hungary continues to block EU aid until oil transit is restored, arguing the suspension is politically motivated, and Zelenskyy urged EU support to speed repairs and explore long-term storage solutions.

History

Historical Context

The Druzhba pipeline, operational since 1964, faced significant damage in 2022 due to Russian military actions, disrupting oil transit to Europe. This incident echoes the 2009 gas dispute between Russia and Ukraine, which similarly affected energy supplies across Europe. The ongoing conflict raises energy security concerns for EU nations, prompting shifts in sourcing strategies amid political tensions involving Hungary and Slovakia.

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Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said restoring oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline will take about six weeks after severe damage from Russian strikes.
He told EU leaders Ukraine is committed to repairing the pipeline and has begun working on alternative solutions.
Hungary continues to block EU aid until oil transit is restored, arguing the suspension is politically motivated, and Zelenskyy urged EU support to speed repairs and explore long-term storage solutions.

1 / 2