Hungary and Slovakia

Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has expressed serious concerns over Ukraine's recent decision to impose sanctions on the Russian oil company Lukoil, which he claims threatens Hungary's energy security. He argues that this move violates the EU's 2014 association agreement with Ukraine, as it disrupts oil transit vital for both Hungary and Slovakia. In response, both countries have initiated a consultation process with the European Commission, which has three days to address their concerns, or they will escalate the issue to arbitration. Szijjártó has labeled Ukraine's actions as 'unacceptable' and has emphasized the urgency of the situation, given Hungary's heavy reliance on Russian oil imports. Despite the potential for alternative oil routes, the disruption could lead to increased fuel prices and an energy crisis in Hungary in the long run. The diplomatic tensions between Hungary and Ukraine have escalated, with both sides trading accusations amid the ongoing conflict in the region.