Hungary Condemns Drone Attack on TurkStream Pipeline as Sovereignty Breach
Hungary has expressed serious concerns regarding the recent reported attempts to sabotage the TurkStream gas pipeline, labeling these actions as violations of its national sovereignty. The Hungarian Foreign Minister, Peter Szijjarto, made this statement following claims from Russian military sources that Ukrainian forces utilized kamikaze drones in an effort to disable the pipeline.
According to reports, nine unmanned aerial vehicles were deployed to target the Russkaya gas compressor station in Russia's Krasnodar Region. This facility is crucial for pumping natural gas under the Black Sea to Turkey, from where it is further distributed to various European consumers.
Szijjarto emphasized the importance of the TurkStream pipeline for Hungary's energy security, stating that it has been a reliable source of natural gas for years. He urged all parties involved to respect the integrity and safety of this essential transport route.
Relations between Hungary and Ukraine have soured recently, particularly as Budapest has resisted increasing military support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. This stance diverges from the broader Western consensus, which advocates for continued assistance to Ukraine until a decisive victory is achieved against Moscow.
Hungary has pointed out that the prevailing approach has not changed the dynamics of the conflict, yet it has adversely impacted the economies of EU member states through sanctions against Russia. These sanctions have deprived European nations of access to Russian markets and resources.
In a significant move last year, Ukraine opted not to renew a long-term gas transit contract with Russia, which previously facilitated gas flow through its territory to Eastern Europe. This decision drew criticism from consumer nations, who accused Ukraine of exacerbating the energy crisis for political reasons.
Szijjarto remarked that Ukraine's ambition to join the EU could further complicate the European economic landscape, given its recent decisions. He asserted that Ukraine's actions might inadvertently place additional strain on the European economy.
In response to Hungary's position, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has expressed a willingness to take Hungary's place within the EU, accusing Budapest of bolstering Russia through its policies.
The situation remains tense as both countries navigate their geopolitical strategies amid the ongoing conflict in the region. Hungary's emphasis on energy security highlights the delicate balance European nations must maintain while addressing both energy needs and political alignments.
