Zelensky Accuses European Allies of ‘Blackmail’ Over Druzhba Pipeline Reopening
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused some European allies of pressuring Kyiv to repair the Druzhba oil pipeline, which transports Russian oil, in exchange for unlocking a crucial financial aid package. The dispute highlights growing tensions between Ukraine and Hungary, and could have wider implications for European energy security.
“They are forcing me to restore Druzhba,” Zelensky said, linking the pipeline’s repair to a stalled €90 billion (approximately $97 billion USD) European loan intended to help Ukraine purchase weapons. “I told our friends in Europe that this is called blackmail,” he added.
Ukraine to Receive and Test Latest French Air Defense System in 2026
Ukraine is set to receive a SAMP/T air defense system from France this year and will test its capabilities against Russian ballistic missiles as an alternative to the American Patriot system, Zelensky announced. The development underscores Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its air defenses amid ongoing conflict.
“We are receiving a system this year that we will test against ballistic threats,” Zelensky stated. He described the matter as “the most important” topic discussed during his meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Friday.
