Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has strongly condemned Hungary’s recent decision to ban the entry of Ukrainian military personnel associated with the destruction of the Druzhba oil pipeline. The move by Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has sparked diplomatic tensions, with Kyiv expressing its deep concern over the perceived politicization of the incident. Sybiha emphasized that the issue is not about the individuals involved but rather about the broader geopolitical struggle between Ukraine and Hungary.
The Druzhba oil pipeline, a critical artery for Russia’s energy exports, was damaged in a significant attack attributed to Ukrainian forces. This event has intensified the already contentious relationship between Hungary and Ukraine, with the latter accusing the former of using the incident to exert pressure on Kyiv. The Hungarian government has framed the issue as a matter of national sovereignty, asserting that the presence of Ukrainian military officers in the country is a violation of its territorial integrity.
Ukrainian officials have expressed their frustration over the unilateral decision and called for a more constructive dialogue to resolve the dispute. Sybiha warned that such actions could jeopardize the fragile diplomatic relations between the two nations. Meanwhile, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, as the incident has the potential to escalate into a more serious conflict. The resolution of this issue will depend on the willingness of both sides to engage in open and transparent communication.