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Orban Blocks Loan to Ukraine

Published February 21, 2026, 14:13
Orban Blocks Loan to Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is blocking the EU's €90 billion loan to Ukraine unless Kyiv restores oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline. Hungary accuses Ukraine of deliberately obstructing the resumption of oil deliveries, causing problems for the country's supply. The Druzhba pipeline has been out of operation since the end of January, with Ukraine citing Russian bombings. However, Hungary and Slovakia argue that Ukraine is deliberately preventing the resumption of deliveries. Hungary accuses Ukraine of blackmail, claiming it is cooperating with the Hungarian opposition and Brussels to raise fuel prices before the elections. Viktor Orbán states that he will not succumb to pressure and that Hungary will block the loan until oil transit is resumed. The EU expects all member states to adhere to the political agreement to provide aid to Ukraine, but Hungary appears determined to maintain its position. The €90 billion loan had already received the approval of the European Parliament and the approval of the Council of Member States was considered a formality. However, the necessary vote has been postponed due to Hungary's opposition.