President Sets Deadline for Oil Pipeline Launch
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the repair of the Druzhba oil pipeline is progressing on schedule, and he also commented on relations with Hungary and his readiness to meet with the new Prime Minister.
This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing a broadcast from the Office of the President of Ukraine.
Read also: Hungary Changes Course on Ukraine and Sanctions Against Russia: The Magyar Outlines His First Steps
Timeline for Pipeline Restoration
Zelensky announced that by the end of April, the pipeline will be partially restored and able to operate.
He clarified that not all tanks will be repaired within this timeframe, as it is a longer process; however, this will be sufficient for the system to function.
According to him, Ukraine expects the completion of the work to coincide with the fulfillment of obligations by European Union countries, primarily Hungary, which had previously blocked important decisions for Kyiv.
Relations with Hungary After the Elections
The President emphasized that Ukraine is focused on cooperation with Hungary, highlighting the good relations between the peoples of the two countries and the importance of maintaining them.
He stated that interaction with the new leadership should be based on pragmatism, agreements, cooperation, and mutual respect, which strengthens both sides.
Zelensky also reminded that the elections in Hungary took place on Sunday, the 12th, and the people of the country made their choice, calling the coincidence of this date with Easter in Ukraine symbolic.
Readiness for Dialogue with the New Prime Minister
The head of state expressed his readiness to meet with Péter Madiar as soon as the new Prime Minister is prepared for it.
He added that options for traveling to Europe through Germany were discussed; however, Ukraine also offered its own transportation, noting that the journey would take about 11-12 hours, but such an opportunity remains open.
It is worth reminding that the victorious candidate in the Hungarian elections, Péter Madiar, is preparing a comprehensive strategy for restoring relations with the European Union after 16 years of Viktor Orbán’s rule.
Notably, the head of the “Tisa” party and winner of the parliamentary elections in Hungary, Péter Madiar, indicated that Budapest is unlikely to obstruct the allocation of 90 billion euros to Ukraine.
