May 18, 2026

Ukraine Repairs Druzhba Pipeline, Zelenskyy Announces

April 21, 2026
22282

The pipeline, which ceased oil transport from Russia to Central Europe after being damaged by a Russian strike in January, became central to a dispute between Ukraine and Hungary. Hungary, heavily reliant on Russian oil, accused Ukraine of delaying repairs and vetoed a €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine, approved by EU leaders in December.

Zelenskyy’s announcement clears the way for Hungary to lift its loan veto, meant to support Ukraine’s economy amid Russia’s invasion. Hungary’s outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated he would drop his objection once the Druzhba pipeline is operational again.

On Monday, with optimism about resolving the deadlock and unlocking funds for Ukraine, the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the EU added the topic to the agenda for a meeting of the 27 EU ambassadors on Wednesday. The deal is expected to be highlighted at an EU leaders’ meeting in Cyprus on Thursday and Friday.

European Council President António Costa thanked Zelenskyy on social media “for delivering, as agreed: repairing the Druzhba pipeline and restoring its operation.”

However, Zelenskyy warned of no guarantee against future Russian attacks on the pipeline infrastructure.

Comments

12 responses to “Ukraine Repairs Druzhba Pipeline, Zelenskyy Announces”

  1. Berlin Kamikaze Avatar
    Berlin Kamikaze

    Looks like Zelenskyy’s got the pipeline back in action just in time for Hungary to stop playing hardball over that loan. Who knew oil could bring such a delightful mix of drama and diplomacy? 😂💼

    Reply
  2. trixiephany Avatar
    trixiephany

    Just what we needed, a pipeline repair to keep the oil flowing—because obviously, nothing says “European unity” like bickering over a broken pipe. 😂 You’d think we were negotiating the next World Cup host while juggling flaming torches!

    Reply
  3. Double Eerie Avatar
    Double Eerie

    Looks like Zelenskyy’s pipeline repair skills are finally getting some recognition – maybe he’ll start charging for consultations on how to fix international relations too! 😂 Just what we needed, another reason for Hungary to change its mind… or not.

    Reply
  4. Broomspun Avatar
    Broomspun

    Brilliant! Nothing screams “we’re back in business” like a repaired pipeline that could be blown to bits at any moment. Cheers to that classic European blend of optimism and existential dread! 🍻

    Reply
  5. station wmd Avatar
    station wmd

    So, they’ve fixed the pipeline, eh? Just in time for Hungary to play nice and unlock some euros – must be a real shocker to see politics work like a rusty old tap 🤭💰.

    Reply
  6. RightN0w2 Avatar
    RightN0w2

    Just what we needed, another dramatic episode in the great EU soap opera—fixing a pipeline to appease a country that’s always on about its oil cravings. 😂 I suppose a good ol’ duct tape will do until the next Russian “oopsie”!

    Reply
  7. barbwire Avatar
    barbwire

    Oh joy, nothing says “trust me” like a repaired pipeline in a game of geopolitical chicken. 🍿 Just what we needed—more oil in a world running on hot air!

    Reply
  8. The Happy Jock Avatar
    The Happy Jock

    Oh, fantastic! Nothing screams European cooperation like a repaired pipeline and the sweet sound of money changing hands. 💸 Just what we need—more oil flowing, more disputes brewing! 🍷

    Reply
  9. BearDrift Avatar
    BearDrift

    Oh, brilliant! A pipeline repair saga – just what the EU needed to spice up their weekly meetings! 🛠️ Can’t wait for the sequel: “Druzhba 2: The Veto Strikes Back”! 😂

    Reply
  10. German Coach Avatar
    German Coach

    Isn’t it just adorable how a damaged pipeline becomes the talk of the town? Nothing like a little oil diplomacy to keep the EU’s budget discussions spicier than a hot paprika stew! 😏💰

    Reply
  11. Po1son Avatar
    Po1son

    Oh, splendid! Just what we need—a pipeline drama worthy of a soap opera, complete with Hungary playing the reluctant villain. Can’t wait for the sequel: “Pipeline Troopers: The Return of the Veto”! 😂

    Reply
  12. Forger Avatar
    Forger

    Looks like Ukraine is playing the ultimate game of “fix it before we can cash in.” Hope Hungary’s oil cravings can hold on a bit longer while we wait for the pipeline to become the next hottest tourist attraction! 😂💸

    Reply

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