Hungarian MOL reaches agreements securing Druzhba crude deliveries
Hungarian oil and gas company MOL on Monday announced that it concluded agreements to secure the continuous transport of crude through the Druzhba pipeline through Belarus and Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia.
Securing crude through the Druzhba pipeline
Under the agreements with crude suppliers and pipeline operators, MOL Group will take over ownership of the affected volumes of crude at the Belarus-Ukraine border, effective September 9.
The updated transportation agreements and the new takeover arrangements fully comply with all relevant sanctions and provisions, including those of the European Union and Ukraine, MOL said.
Gabriel Szabó, MOL Group‘s downstream VP, said the new arrangement provided a “sustainable solution” for crude transport through the Druzhba pipeline and would contribute to the security of supply in Hungary and Slovakia.
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Russian oil dispute in Hungary: Market struggles or internal conflicts
Europe has been stirred by statements from the Hungarian and Slovak governments, accusing Ukraine of disrupting their supply of Russian oil through sanctions imposed on the oil company Lukoil. Despite the outcry, investigations by the European Commission and statements from various officials have confirmed that there have been no fuel shortages or price increases.
Background of the Russian oil dispute
On 16 July, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in New York. Following their meeting, Szijjártó publicly stated for the first time that Ukrainian sanctions were causing problems. He added that negotiations were already underway with Russia to find a solution.
By late summer, Hungarian officials, including Szijjártó, expressed confidence that they were close to resolving the issue, ensuring that Russian oil would continue to flow to Hungary and Slovakia as it had in the past. However, the situation remains politically charged. Hungary and Slovakia have criticised the European Commission for not intervening or convening talks between Brussels and Kyiv, arguing that the Commission’s conclusion that there was no problem was misguided, as we previously reported.
Conflicting accounts and unclear details
According to Válasz Online, there are significant discrepancies in the accounts of what transpired. Ukrainian authorities stated that they had informed Mol, the Hungarian oil company, and Lukoil about the planned sanctions in advance, allowing time for adjustments. Mol reportedly assured the Ukrainian state pipeline company that Lukoil’s oil would not transit through Ukraine, and Ukraine subsequently communicated that trade could continue without issue. According to Ukraine, their sanctions did not result in any reduction in oil deliveries to Mol.
However, conflicting details have emerged from industry sources. It has been reported that four oil traders, including a Swiss subsidiary linked to Lukoil, were involved in transporting oil through Ukraine to refineries in Bratislava and Hungary. Ukraine stated that the subsidiary was not subject to the sanctions, and upon investigation, the European Commission concluded that Ukraine was not restricting transit.
Some sources claimed that the Ukrainian pipeline company had misquoted Mol, suggesting that only two traders were named, not four. This included Litasco, a company linked to Lukoil, and Normeston, a Swiss subsidiary with Hungarian-Russian ties, raising questions about who was actually involved.
Uncertainty persists over how much oil was affected by the sanctions. The Ukrainian pipeline company estimated that 260,000 tonnes of oil destined for Slovakia and 105,000 tonnes for Hungary did not arrive in July due to Lukoil’s self-imposed restrictions. However, the Russian business daily *Kommersant* reported different figures, with only 94,000 tonnes less than planned delivered to Hungary and 189,000 tonnes less to Slovakia.
By August, oil supplies through Ukraine had reportedly returned to normal, with Mol sourcing oil from other traders instead of Lukoil. Various reports suggested Normeston had become the new supplier, purchasing oil from Rosneft, another Russian state-owned company, rather than Lukoil.
Some experts suggest that the entire situation may stem from internal competition among Russian oil companies, with Rosneft attempting to push Lukoil out of the remaining EU market. However, according to Kommersant, Lukoil has been replaced by Tatneft, a Tatarstan-based Russian oil company that now reportedly dominates the Slovak and Hungarian markets. However, the portal reports that its sources indicate that Mol has no direct connections with Tatneft.
Hungarian officials have also floated different solutions. Gergely Gulyás mentioned a potential deal for Mol to buy Lukoil’s oil directly at the Russian-Ukrainian border, though experts pointed out that this suggestion was geographically inaccurate, as the Druzhba (Friendship) pipeline, the main route for oil, does not directly connect the two countries but runs through Belarus.
Political and economic consequences
The confusion was further heightened by statements from Ukrainian officials. Mikhail Podolyak, an adviser to the Ukrainian President, suggested in a media interview that the Druzhba pipeline, which supplies Russian oil, could be shut down by the end of the year. He later corrected himself, clarifying that the pipeline would not be closed until 2029, highlighting the ongoing confusion and miscommunication surrounding the issue.
This ongoing saga illustrates the complexities of the oil trade between Russia and EU member states, as *Válasz Online* comments on the issue. The conflicting statements from governments, companies, and experts create an environment of uncertainty and make it difficult to ascertain the true nature of the problem. Industry insiders even believe that this might be part of a broader competition between Russian oil companies, with Ukraine and EU member states caught in the middle.
Ultimately, the issue showcases how entangled and politicised the energy trade between Russia and the EU has become. Statements from politicians, the media, and even industry experts often seem unreliable, contributing to a broader narrative of mistrust.
Read also:
- MOL not informed of plan to shut down Friendship crude oil pipeline, company says – Read here
- Official: Brussels leaves Hungary and Slovakia to handle Lukoil sanctions alone – Read here
Featured image: depositphotos.com
Breaking – Ukraine to shut down Druzhba oil pipeline on 1 January, raising concerns for Hungary’s oil supply
The Druzhba oil pipeline, which supplies Russian crude to Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, will cease operations starting 1 January 2025, according to a statement by Mykhailo Podolyak, advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This development aligns with Ukraine’s decision to halt Russian gas transit through the Brotherhood pipeline, as Ukraine has opted not to renew its contract with Gazprom, which expires at the end of the year.
Ukraine open to helping, but not with Russian gas
In the past, Hungary received gas via this route, but in anticipation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the country redirected the flow to the Turkish Stream pipeline from the south. Currently, gas continues to flow through the Brotherhood pipeline from Hungary toward Ukraine. Podolyak indicated that Ukraine is open to transmitting non-Russian gas through this route, such as from Central Asia, if appropriate agreements are made, HVG reports.
Europe, he noted, has diversified its energy sources, reducing its reliance on Russia, which no longer plays the dominant role it once did. Podolyak emphasised that should countries want Kazakh or Azerbaijani gas, Ukraine would be ready to facilitate its transport as long as the necessary logistical and contractual frameworks are in place.
Druzhba pipeline to close next January
However, with the Druzhba pipeline’s closure looming, Hungary may face oil supply challenges. Currently, Hungary can only import oil via the Adriatic pipeline from Croatia, apart from the Druzhba line. This raises concerns about the country’s energy security, as reliance on a single pipeline could leave it vulnerable to fluctuations and price hikes.
Zsolt Hernádi, CEO of MOL, Hungary’s state oil company, has long warned of the risks associated with cutting off Russian oil imports due to the war in Ukraine. He argued that relying solely on Croatia for oil supplies is not only economically damaging but also leaves Hungary exposed to potential manipulation by Croatia. MOL has previously voiced concerns that Croatia could exploit this situation by increasing transit fees for the Adriatic pipeline, something MOL already considers excessive.
UPDATE: Ukraine clarifies position
By Friday afternoon, Podolyak reversed his statement, contradicting his earlier claims: read more HERE.
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How Kaufland is attracting Hungarian shoppers to cross the border into Slovakia
Recently, the Slovakian Kaufland’s incredible deals have stirred lively discussions online. Many Hungarians are debating whether it is worth crossing the border for their groceries. The German retail chain now offers a Hungarian-language catalogue online, with prices listed in Hungarian forints (HUF). Additionally, Slovakian branches are actively seeking Hungarian-speaking staff.
What is Kaufland?
As reported by Economx, Kaufland is a German hypermarket chain owned by the Schwarz Group, which also owns Lidl. The chain operates over 1,000 stores across Europe, including in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Romania, although it does not have a presence in Hungary.
Kaufland’s unbeatable offers
Kaufland has recently gone viral with a promotional campaign highlighting beer at much lower prices than in Hungary. A recent advertisement featured a half-litre can of Krusovice for just HUF 216 (EUR 0.55) and Kozel for HUF 153 (EUR 0.39) in Slovakia—significantly cheaper than in Hungary, where the same beers are priced around HUF 400-490 (EUR 1.01-1.24). These attractive prices are part of Kaufland’s 35% weekly discount campaign, showcasing their intent to draw Hungarian shoppers across the border for their everyday purchases.
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Hungarian customers, Hungarian workers?
In a bid to attract more Hungarian shoppers, Kaufland has launched a dedicated website in Hungarian, where shoppers can browse the offers available in Slovakian stores. This convenient feature enables Hungarian customers to check out the latest deals and determine if a trip to Slovakia is worthwhile. The online catalogues also display prices converted into HUF, making it easier for Hungarians to make informed decisions.
In addition to these efforts, Kaufland is also seeking Hungarian employees for its stores. We can only guess that they aim to strengthen their connections with the Hungarian market. However, the Slovakian stores are not the only ones seeking a Hungarian workforce; German and Romanian Kauflands also advertise warehouse assistant positions. The hourly wage is EUR 17.85, but according to Hungarian workers, the warehouses are gigantic, thus hard work is expected.
Russia joins the race for Hungarian customers
As we have reported HERE, Russian discount chain Mere is preparing to make its debut in Hungary with the opening of its first store in Újpest, Budapest, on a site previously occupied by a Spar supermarket. Mere has ambitious plans to establish 15 stores across Hungary in three phases, with the long-term goal of expanding to up to 100 locations over the next 5-10 years. The chain, known for its exceptionally low prices and simple business model, aims to attract customers by offering prices up to 30 percent lower than competitors such as Lidl and Aldi.
Although their expansion targets are ambitious, especially considering the challenges faced by other discount retailers in Hungary, Mere is confident in its strategy. The new stores will be primarily accessible by car and will focus on offering essential goods at highly competitive prices, which Mere believes will resonate with Hungarian consumers.
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International train delays expected in Hungary next week: Czech, Slovak trains affected
Significant delays are expected in international trains arriving from Czechia and Slovakia over the coming days. Trains entering Hungary at Szob are generally delayed by 40-60 minutes.
International train delays in Hungary
The delays are due to maintenance work being carried out on the Czech railway network. As a result, until 29 August, international trains travelling to and from Budapest are running on modified schedules. Some services are also rerouted, resulting in longer travel times, according to an announcement by Mávinform on Sunday.
The notice further warned that trains entering Hungary at Szob may face delays of 40-60 minutes, with occasional longer delays also possible.
Changes affecting the international sections of the impacted trains can be found HERE.
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Official: Brussels leaves Hungary and Slovakia to handle Lukoil sanctions alone
The European Commission has refused to mediate between Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine regarding the sanctions Kyiv imposed on the Russian oil company Lukoil, according to an EU spokesperson on Friday. This decision leaves the two EU member states without any external support from Brussels.
No immediate threat to energy security
The Commission concluded that immediate consultations were unnecessary, as the sanctions on Lukoil do not pose a threat to European energy security. According to the spokesperson, the sanctions do not affect oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline, as long as Lukoil is not the official owner of the oil being transported, Index reports.
In June, Ukraine imposed sanctions on Lukoil, banning the company from operating in the country. Hungary and Slovakia had previously expressed concern that these sanctions jeopardize their energy supplies, but the Commission found no reason to intervene.
Hungary’s solution to Lukoil sanctions
Hungary provided the Commission with additional information on the issue, which it will review, the Hungarian News Agency (MTI) reports. Meanwhile, Hungary’s MOL Group has worked out a potential solution, agreeing to take over the oil shipments directly from the Russia-Ukraine border. However, this would raise the price of oil by around EUR 1.50 per barrel due to the increased transportation costs.
Hungarian minister Gergely Gulyás noted that while the agreement could be acceptable to Ukraine, it will only be finalised once all contracts are signed. He expects this to happen by early autumn.
Sanctions threaten Hungary and Slovakia’s oil supply
Ukraine’s sanctions on Lukoil have complicated Hungary and Slovakia’s ability to import Russian oil, a key supply route for both countries. Hungary imports 70% of its oil from Russia, with about half of that coming from Lukoil. This amounts to 2 million tons of crude annually, covering one-third of Hungary’s oil imports.
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó remarked that Ukraine’s goal is to cut off one of the Kremlin’s primary revenue streams, especially crucial over two years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. However, Hungary’s dependence on Russian oil raises fears of supply shortages.
Reliance on the Druzhba pipeline
The Lukoil sanctions could lead to significant supply issues for Hungary and Slovakia. Currently, both nations rely heavily on the Druzhba pipeline for their oil imports, with MOL Group operating refineries in both countries. In the medium term, this could impact energy prices and availability, with Hungary seeking alternative routes through Croatia via the Adriatic pipeline, which does not operate at full capacity.
Despite these challenges, MOL’s CEO Zsolt Hernádi remains cautiously optimistic, stating that a fuel shortage is not expected. He noted, however, that replacing Lukoil’s vast oil supply, given its significant storage capacity, would not be easy.
Alternatives and concerns for future supply
Hernádi acknowledged that while oil can be supplied from Croatia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic would face greater challenges if the Druzhba pipeline were to stop operating. The Adriatic pipeline is not a perfect alternative; it has never been run at full capacity, and Croatian authorities have already raised transportation prices. They could halt deliveries at any time due to maintenance issues, raising concerns about the reliability of this supply route.
Hernádi emphasised that Lukoil, as Russia’s second-largest oil producer, holds a dominant position in the market. It has the ability to ship large quantities of oil quickly and has vast storage capacity, making it difficult to find a suitable replacement. Despite the challenges, Hernádi does not foresee a fuel crisis in Hungary, although a complete shutdown of the Druzhba pipeline would leave only one viable supply route.
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Hungarian Competition Authority fines illegal e-cigarette distributor nearly HUF 190 million
The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has imposed a HUF 189 million fine on the Slovak company Airbox for giving consumers the false impression that it was legally distributing electronic cigarettes and electronic devices imitating smoking on its website, despite the ban on distance selling in Hungary. In the course of the proceeding, the GVH also blocked the Slovak company’s website. The national competition authority is urging consumers to be aware that illegally distributed tobacco products ordered on the internet from foreign websites can have harmful effects on health. The GVH urges consumers to always be cautious and to buy tobacco products only from authorised retail outlets.
Hungarian Competition Authority fines illegal e-cigarette distributor
In early February 2024, the GVH launched a competition supervision proceeding against Airbox s.r.o., as it found that the Slovak-based company was engaging in a likely misleading communication practice on its Hungarian-language website about the marketability of its products in Hungary.
In the course of the procedure, the Hungarian Competition Authority found that between June 2022 and February 2024, the company gave the impression to the Hungarian consumers on its website that it was legally distributing electronic cigarettes and electronic devices imitating smoking. In Hungary, under the legislation in force, flavoured electronic cigarettes and electronic smoking devices are prohibited from being marketed and the online distance selling of the tobacco products concerned is also prohibited. The GVH found that Airbox had engaged in unfair commercial practices. The Competition Council of the GVH imposed a maximum fine of HUF 189 million on the Slovak company.
Following the opening of the proceeding, the Hungarian Competition Authority immediately acted to protect Hungarian consumers and ordered the blocking of the Hungarian access to the website concerned. The Competition Council of the GVH may block certain digital content (e.g. websites) if this is necessary to prevent the risk of serious harm in view of the extensive consumer exposure. The increased powers will allow the national competition authority to act more effectively in the interest of Hungarian consumers.
The Hungarian Competition Authority has already taken strict action against two Slovak companies for selling electronic cigarettes and Elf Bar products, which are popular among minors and therefore extremely dangerous, on their Hungarian-language websites. Investigations revealed that the companies had misled Hungarian consumers into believing that their products could be legally distributed, and the proceedings in both cases ended with the highest fines possible.
In connection with the case, the GVH emphasises once again that it is extremely important that consumers, especially children and minors and their parents, are aware that in Hungary the sale of the above-mentioned products over the internet – and even their possession, i.e. the purchase of them online – is illegal and may therefore lead to legal consequences.
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Hungary, Slovakia could restrict electricity supplies to Ukraine
Hungary and Slovakia have raised the idea of restricting or even suspending electricity supplies to Ukraine if it fails to resume the transit of oil to the former two countries, public broadcaster M1 reported on Friday, referring to talks between the two countries.
Experts asked by M1 have said that such a move was “theoretically” possible, through coordination between Hungary and Slovakia.
Olivér Hortay, senior researcher at Századvég, said Ukraine heavily relied on imported electricity, adding that the power supply received through Hungary “has on many occasions accounted for over 40-42 percent” of Ukraine’s domestic demand. “Cutting such a large amount off would seriously impact Ukraine’s supplies,” he added.
Read also:
- Reuters informers: Ukraine may cease oil transit to Hungary, Slovakia in August – read more HERE
Hungarian, Czech, French, Slovak citizens leave Lebanon on Hungarian Army aircraft – PHOTOS
The foreign ministry has contacted 165 Hungarian citizens living in Lebanon and offered them help to leave in the wake of a recent escalation of events in the Middle East; 18 Hungarian citizens and their family members are returning to Hungary in a joint operation with the defence ministry, the foreign minister said on Thursday.
Péter Szijjártó said on Facebook that despite all the concerns raised in Europe, events in recent days had increased the risk of escalation in the Middle East conflict.
“Beyond promoting peace at all international forums and trying to prevent an escalation of events, the government’s primary responsibility … is to guarantee the safety of Hungarian people,” he said. As part of this effort, 165 Hungarian citizens staying in Lebanon were contacted by phone or electronically in the past few days, he added.
After receiving confirmation that they were all well, the ministry offered its help for their safest and fastest return to Hungary, provided by a Hungarian Army aircraft, he said. Eventually 18 Hungarian citizens accepted the opportunity, including seven children, and direct relatives of these Hungarian families, he said.
“It was unfortunately not the first such operation carried out in the region, and as it had been done before, we informed our allies about the Hungarian operation and told them that we could also help them with returning their citizens home,” he said.
A Hungarian Army aircraft has recently left Lebanon’s airspace carrying 18 Hungarians and 11 foreigners, including five Czech, a French and a Slovak citizens.
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- Hungarian foreign minister: the EU should contact President Bashar al-Assad – Read more HERE
- Hungarian government strengthens education relations with Iraq
No mercy from Ukraine: They insist on restricting Russian oil transport to Hungary, Slovakia – UPDATED
News broke in mid-July about an end-June Ukrainian decree banning Russian Lukoil from transporting crude oil using Ukrainian pipelines. Some experts said the step endangers supply in Hungary and Slovakia considerably. Ukraine says the opposite, and they cleared that in a harsh message to PM Robert Fico, claiming that the European Commission is on their side. Here’s the next episode of the Russian oil conflict.
No ‘mercy’ from Ukraine in Russian oil conflict
Ukraine’s prime minister, Denys Shmyhal, shared the harsh reaction of the Ukrainian government on an alleged Slovakian ‘threat’ on Telegram. He suggested that those countries that would like to keep up Russian transport to Europe would support the aggressor, and that is unacceptable. Before, Bratislava said they would halt diesel export to Ukraine provided Kyiv does not abolish their Lukoil sanction.
Ukraine announced the ban on Lukoil in mid-July and added they would not like to support the Russian machine by letting through crude for a company that is one of the biggest supporters of Putin’s invasion.
The Hungarian and Slovakian governments were outraged, saying that the unilateral Ukrainian decision endangers both countries’ oil and energy supply. Some experts like Ilona Gizińska, a senior analyst of the Centre for Eastern Studies, told Politico that Hungarians should calculate with skyrocketing fuel and energy prices, but experts say she was not right.
The European Commission supports Ukraine
G7.hu wrote that the ban on Lukoil’s transport does not mean there would be fewer molecules in the Ukrainian pipeline, coming to Hungary and Slovakia. It only means that Lukoil is unable to label its crude as Lukoil. However, another company can substitute it in Ukraine, as it probably already happened, and business may continue as usual. For example, Hungarian gas and oil giant MOL having refineries in Bratislava and Százhalombatta and processing Russian oil, has not even said a word concerning the issue.
Meanwhile, concerning the government’s excess profit taxes, MOL CEO Zsolt Hernádi slammed the Orbán cabinet in an opinion article. “We pay more for nothing. Isn’t that familiar somehow? Just like in the Communism. Back to the future, gentlemen”, he concluded his article published in the government-close Mandiner.
That is why Ukraine says their step does not endanger Slovakia and Hungary. And that is why they replied so harshly and added that the European Commission supported them. Hungary and Slovakia have jointly initiated a consultation procedure with the European Union against Ukraine, but the European Commission did not back the plea.
Financial Times wrote that Brussels needed more time to collect evidence and analyse the situation. That means they would not interfere in favour of Budapest and Bratislava. Furthermore, the European Commission said the ban did not cause problems in Hungary and Slovakia’s supply.
Ukraine’s stoppage of crude deliveries likely recommended by Brussels, says the Orbán cabinet
Tamás Menczer, the communications director of the ruling Fidesz-Christian Democrats, on Thursday said there was “a good chance” that the move to halt the transit of significant volumes of Russian crude oil to Hungary and Slovakia had been recommended to Ukraine by Brussels “or even [European Commission President] Ursula von der Leyen herself”. Menczer told public broadcaster Kossuth Rádió and news channel M1 that by stopping crude deliveries,
Ukraine was endangering Hungary’s and Slovakia’s energy security, which was in breach of its association agreement with the European Union.
He said the European Commission should take steps in the interest of protecting the member states impacted by the move and “safeguard” the implementation of the agreement, “yet nothing is happening”.
“We have to be increasingly firm in saying what we were saying at the beginning, which is that there’s a good chance that it was Brussels or [EC President] Ursula von der Leyen herself who had recommended to Ukraine that it should cut off oil deliveries,” Menczer said.
Blackmailing Ukraine?
He said Hungary would use every means possible to protect itself, “but it wouldn’t hurt if for once the commission acted in accordance with the regulations and in common sense, but it looks like we can’t count on this.”
Menczer said there were both legal and technical options for addressing the situation. Underlining that Hungary did not want to “blackmail Ukraine back”, he said it is a fact that a significant amount of the energy Ukraine uses is delivered to the country via Hungary.
Asked about the fine the European Court of Justice instructed Hungary to pay for refusing to implement several EU migration rules, Menczer said the timing of the fine was not coincidental, adding that Hungary’s commitment to peace could have been one of the reasons behind it.
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- Hungary may receive Russian oil via Croatia, but there’s a huge problem – details in THIS article
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
Hungary may receive Russian oil via Croatia, but there’s a huge problem
A legal loophole could allow Russian oil to come to Hungary via Croatia. However, that amount will not be able to serve two refineries.
Russian oil may come to Hungary via Croatia
Ukraine may eventually block all Russian oil supplies through the Friendship II pipeline. In preparation for this, three Russian oil companies have already started to divert their supplies to seaports, as Daily News Hungary reported.
According to Portfolio, a “legal loophole” can be exploited for these to reach Hungary and Slovakia via the Adriatic pipeline from Croatia. However, there is a problem: the pipeline has a much more limited capacity than the two countries need.
Tamás Pletser, an analyst at Erste Befektetési Plc., told RTL News that “if the supply through the Friendship pipeline stops, it means that in the short term, the MOL Group will be in a difficult situation, because the Adriatic pipeline can supply oil from the sea, but it cannot fully meet the demand of the company’s two refineries”.
According to the Hungarian News Agency (MTI), Slovakia said on Friday it had proposed a technical solution to Ukraine to restore oil supplies to refineries in Slovakia and Hungary, following warnings that a partial shutdown could lead to fuel shortages as early as early September.
As we reported, a Ukrainian sanction that came into force at the end of June has halted Russian Lukoil’s oil supplies to MOL via Ukraine, as the Russian company cannot lease the Ukrainian pipeline network for transit.
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BREAKING – Hungary initiates procedure against Ukraine, but not alone
Hungary and Slovakia have jointly initiated a consultation procedure at the European Union against Ukraine in connection with an “unexpected and unfriendly move” which involved partially halting crude oil supplies, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said on Monday.
The ministry cited Szijjártó telling a press conference after the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels that the Ukrainian decision to stop Russian oil company Lukoil’s crude oil transits had severely endangered energy supplies for Hungary and Slovakia.
He said that energy supplies were not a matter of politics but infrastructure, and considering that there were no alternative routes, Hungary’s crude oil needs could not be resolved without Russian resources. As a result, Hungary, together with Slovakia and Czechia, has been granted exemption from EU sanctions in terms of imports, he added.
He also said that Lukoil provided one-third of Hungary’s and 45 percent of Slovakia’s crude oil imports, and the Ukrainian ban therefore posed a fundamental threat to the two countries’ energy security.
“This is an unacceptable and incomprehensible decision from a country that wants to be an EU member, and with a single decision it endangers the crude oil supplies of two countries,” he said.
For the time being, the situation could be stabilised with temporary solutions but the security of crude oil supplies for Hungary and Slovakia cannot be guaranteed without Lukoil supplies even in the medium term, he said
“As a result, we have been in continual consultations with the Slovak government in order to resolve the situation. Yesterday I also talked to the Ukrainian foreign minister by phone and he said there were naturally no problems and all transits were allowed through Ukraine, but this is obviously no true,” Szijjártósaid.
“Lukoil supplies have not been able to arrive in Hungary for several weeks … with this new regulation Ukraine prohibited the transit of crude oil supplies from Lukoil,” he added.
Szijjártósaid this violated the EU-Ukraine association agreement which stated that Kyiv must not disrupt the transit of energy to members of the bloc. In line with the agreement, in such case the affected member state can immediately launch a consultation procedure and the European Commission is obliged to represent the state in the matter, he added.
If the issue cannot be resolved, then there is an option to set up a chosen court and proceedings to be executed within forty days, and if even that does not bring a solution, then the EU is authorised to not fulfil some of its contractual obligations, such as in the area of the customs duties exemptions.
“Today jointly with Slovakia we initiated at the European Commission the launch of consultations that precede the chosen court proceedings,” he said. “It is an urgent matter because the security of energy supplies is an acute issue, and the European Commission therefore has three days to carry out the consultations with Ukraine, and failing that, the chosen court will start dispute settlement proceedings,” he added.
The minister said that the two countries were simultaneously working on various legal and technical solutions in order to ensure that in case the consultations failed, the court dispute settlement proceedings could start.
“We have been continually in contact and certain solutions have been taking shape that could secure energy supplies in the long term,” he said.
Szijjártósaid the Ukrainian decision was “unfriendly and unexpected” also in light of the fact that 42 percent of the country’s electricity imports arrived from Hungary in June.
He said that despite all the criticism it was receiving, Hungary was continually aiding Ukraine’s energy supply “in these hard times”.
The company that operates Hungary’s electricity network is making serious efforts to help Ukraine connect with the European network, he said.
Additionally, next to Poland, Slovakia and Hungary granted rapid aid to Ukraine for the operation of its energy system, Szijjártó said.
Slovakia will not boycott Hungary’s presidency, the Slovak President said
Slovakia will not join any attempt or activity that aims to boycott the Hungarian presidency of the Council of the European Union, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini said on Thursday.
Pellegrini said at a joint press conference with Hungarian counterpart Tamas Sulyok that Slovak government representatives would participate in and support all Hungarian activities. He added that he did not think anyone should be punished for initiating dialogue.
Pellegrini expressed thanks for Hungary’s promise to extend air defence for Slovakia until the end of 2025.
He also said that economic help would further increase between the two countries, not only in terms of the exchange of goods but also for labour.
Sulyok calls for strengthening bilateral dialogue with Slovakia
Bilateral dialogue between Hungary and Slovakia should not only be maintained but strengthened so the two countries could serve their individual and joint interests even better, President Tamás Sulyok said on Thursday, after meeting his Slovak counterpart, Peter Pellegrini, in Budapest on Thursday. Sulyok told a joint press conference that he and Pellegrini had reviewed several areas “with a view of strengthening the [two countries’] strategic partnership”.
Regarding Hungary’s European Council presidency, Sulyok said he had asked for Pellegrini’s support to Hungary’s role as a “fair mediator” in issues such as curbing illegal migration, boosting European defence policy, an agricultural policy focusing on farmers, and “real solutions” to demographic challenges.
He said the two countries’ approach to enlargement was identical, calling for speeding up the accession process of the Western Balkans countries.
He added that he had told Pellegrini that it was well worth maintaining smaller groupings based on good dialogue and cooperation within the larger framework of the EU, “a larger alliance and framework of adaptation”.
Hungary apposed all types of aggression, President said
Sulyok said he supported the Visegrad initiative and expressed hope that the community could develop into an even stronger, European engine at the Polish summit during the winter.
In his capacity as the commander of the Hungarian army, he said the continual developments of the Hungarian army would further contribute to carrying out joint air policing tasks.
He said he had also told Pellegrini at a one-on-one meeting that Hungary apposed all types of aggression.
“Human dignity is inviolable, it must be respected, the respect must be enforced, and it must be protected,” he added.
He said they had also discussed the situation of national minorities and were in agreement that it served the interests of both sides to support coexistence. He expressed hope that the ethnic Hungarian advisor to the Slovak president would further elevate this.
Hungary will make every effort to ensure that significant support is provided for the ethnic Slovak community in Hungary, he said.
Hungarian House Speaker meets President Pellegrini
Speaker of Parliament László Kövér held talks with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini in Budapest on Thursday, parliament’s press service said. At their meeting, Kövér and Pellegrini reviewed Hungarian-Slovak political relations, issues concerning their national communities, the status of the Visegrád Group cooperation, the situation of the European Union and international challenges such as the war in Ukraine, along with the possibilities for establishing peace as soon as possible.
According to the statement, Kövér said in connection with Hungary’s presidency of the Council of the EU that Hungary would do its utmost to make progress on all issues on which Hungary and Slovakia held similar positions.
Among the seven main priorities of the Hungarian presidency, the speaker highlighted the aim of curbing illegal migration. Pellegrini is on an official visit to Budapest at the invitation of Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok.
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- No Hungarians were injured in Slovakian festival accident
No Hungarians were injured in Slovakian festival accident
No Hungarians were among the injured when a tent collapsed in stormy weather at the Pohoda Festival, at the Trencin airport in northern Slovakia, on Friday, a spokesman of the Hungarian foreign ministry told MTI on Saturday.
Máté Paczolay said 14 people injured in the accident had been taken to hospital.
The Hungarian consular services are in contact with the festival organisers and the hospitals treating the injured, he added
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Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com
Bus and train crashed near Érsekújvár, heavy casualties
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has expressed his condolences to his Slovak counterpart over a train crash that happened at Nove Zamky (Érsekújvár) on Thursday.
In his letter to Juraj Blanar, Szijjártó expressed his sympathy with family members of the five victims and wished a speedy recovery to those that had been hospitalised with injuries.
In the accident, a high-speed train on its way from Prague to Budapest crashed with a bus at a railway crossing.
The consular services have not reported Hungarians involved in the accident.
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Horrible accident: Prague-Budapest Eurocity collides with bus in Slovakia, 4 dead – VIDEO
There was a serious accident at a level crossing near Érsekújvár (Nové Zámky) in Slovakia, where a Eurocity train No 279 from Prague to Budapest collided with a bus. Four people were killed and five injured in the accident.
Fatal accident in Slovakia
The accident caused the bus to split in two, drift to the side of the road and then catch fire, overturning. The locomotive, owned by the Czech railway company České dráhy, also caught fire as a result of the collision, 444.hu reports.
About 100 people were on the train, which was driven by a Czech railway company employee. The passengers were evacuated and the road was closed. The Slovakian railway company sent replacement buses to the scene, where several ambulances and rescue helicopters arrived in the meantime.
According to Slovakian news site Napunk, Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj-Eštok and Deputy Police Commissioner Rastislav Polakovič will arrive at the scene of the accident shortly.
The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) said that due to the accident, the arrival of Eurocity trains from Bratislava-Štúrovo on Thursday evening is uncertain.
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Meeting of the Hungarian political parties beyond the borders in Croatia
Árpád János Potápi, the state secretary of policies for Hungarian communities abroad, stressed the importance of unified thinking on matters affecting ethnic Hungarians at a meeting of the leaders of Hungarian political parties beyond the borders in Rijeka on Saturday.
Potápi told MTI that the purpose of the forum was to show people that the sides fostered friendly ties in addition to their contact in the political sphere. As Hungarians have been separated by borders, he said the strength of the system of political institutions needed to be bolstered to ensure unified thinking as well as support for each other, regardless of the region.
He added that roundtable talks of the kind in Rijeka could serve as a “mentor programme” for sharing experience.
The sides expressed solidarity with the Hungarians in Transcarpathia, in the west of Ukraine, he said.
Participants at the forum, hosted by the Democratic Union of Hungarians of Croatia (HMDK), included Hunor Kelemen, the head of the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (RMDSZ); Bálint Pásztor, who heads the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians (VMSZ); László Brenzovics, the head of the Cultural Alliance of Hungarians in Sub-Carpathia (KMKSZ); Krisztián Forró, the leader of Slovakia’s Hungarian Alliance party; Róbert Jankovics, the head of HMDK; and Dusan Orban, the leader of the Prekmurje Hungarian Local Government Ethnic Community (MMÖNK).
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Journey through time: Discover the breathtaking castles of historical Hungary
Embark on a journey through historical Hungary’s rich history by visiting its most captivating castles and mansions, now in Slovakia. From the ancient strongholds perched atop volcanic remnants to the elegant mansions surrounded by lush parks, these sites offer a unique glimpse into the past. Explore the stories etched into the walls and the breathtaking landscapes that have witnessed centuries of change. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveller, these architectural gems promise an unforgettable experience just a stone’s throw from the Hungarian border.
Somoskő Castle
Perched above the settlement of Somoskő and accessible from the Slovak village of Šiatorská Bukovinka (Sátorosbánya), Somoskő Castle was originally built in the late 13th century by the Kacsics family. Expanded by successive owners, this fortress was briefly held by the Ottomans between 1576 and 1593. Legend has it that the castle was reclaimed without bloodshed as the Ottoman soldiers fled at the sight of the approaching Hungarian army, which included the poet Bálint Balassi.
Post-reclamation saw significant fortifications, but the chateau’s importance waned after it was set ablaze during the 1682 siege of Fülek and the Rákóczi War of Independence in 1711. Rescued from centuries of decay by 20th-century restorations, the fortress offers breathtaking views and a deep dive into history, 24.hu reports.
Visitors can extend their tour to see the unique basalt columns on the Slovak side and the Petőfi Hut on the Hungarian side, where the poet Sándor Petőfi allegedly stayed during his 1845 visit.
Rákóczi Castle, Borsi
Located just five kilometres from Sátoraljaújhely, Borsi Castle entered the Rákóczi family through the marriage of Zsuzsanna Lorántffy and George I Rákóczi about 400 years ago. The castle, a blend of two Renaissance structures, was extensively renovated over 40 years, becoming a witness to the birth of Francis II Rákóczi in 1676.
After suffering destruction by marauding soldiers in 1688, restoration efforts began a century later and continued into the 20th century under the guidance of architects Kálmán and Géza Lux. Recent restorations completed in 2021 have restored the stronghold to its former glory. Today, it houses a museum and a 13-room hotel.
Dunacsún Castle
A hidden gem just five kilometres from the Rajka border crossing, the Dunacsún Castle, part of Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, is a must-visit for those exploring the region. Once neglected, the fortress has been revitalised as an eco-center and educational hub.
Renovations uncovered late Baroque frescoes from 1807 and paintings from around 1850. Originally built by the Szapáry family and later inhabited by the Zichys, the building sits alongside a two-story Renaissance granary, a significant architectural representative of its type.
Fülek Castle (Fiľakovo Castle)
Uniquely built on the remnants of a volcanic basalt edge, Fiľakovo Castle transitioned from a 12th-century wooden fortification to a stone fortress. Captured by King Matthias in 1483 and later by the Ottomans in 1554, the building became an Ottoman stronghold, complete with a minaret and caravanserais.
Freed in 1593, the castle saw its heyday as a royal border fortress under the Habsburgs before falling to Thököly and the Ottomans again in 1682, who then destroyed it. Modern excavations and reconstructions have revived the site, now home to a five-story museum showcasing prehistoric artefacts and offering panoramic views. Additionally, a World War II shelter carved into the rock adds a unique historical layer for visitors.
Betliar Mansion
The Andrássy Mansion in Betliar, built from the Gothic stones of the Bebek family chateau, underwent significant transformations in 1792-1795 and again under Manó Andrássy in the 1870s. This French-style building retained many original furnishings, artworks, a 20,000-volume library, and intricate interiors, providing a glimpse into the lives of the Andrássy family.
Surrounded by a 57-hectare English park, one of Slovakia’s largest, complete with a 10-meter waterfall, the mansion’s grounds offer a tranquil retreat. Nearby, the picturesque town of Rožňava is just six kilometres away, adding to the allure of this historic site.
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