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Orban accuses Zelensky of trying to drag Hungary into Ukraine conflict
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban speaks during a news conference with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Budapest, Hungary, February 16, 2026

HUNGARY’S prime minister accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky today of trying to drag Hungary into its conflict with Russia.

Viktor Orban said the Ukrainian leader’s actions “endanger the secure and affordable energy supply of Hungarian families.”

In an open letter posted to social media Mr Orban said: “For four years, you have been working to force Hungary into the war between your country and Russia.

“During this time, you have received support from Brussels and secured the backing of the Hungarian opposition. We also see that you, Brussels and the Hungarian opposition are co-ordinating efforts to bring a pro-Ukraine government to power in Hungary.”

He added: “In recent days, you have blocked the Friendship (Druzhba) oil pipeline [stretching from Russia to central Europe], which is critical to Hungary’s energy supply.”

Accusing President Zelensky of endangering Hungarian energy supplies, Mr Orban said: “I therefore call on you to change your anti-Hungarian policy.”

Ukraine recently moved to block Russian oil supplies through the pipeline, which crosses its territory.

Hungary, along with Slovakia, has defied an EU ban on Russian energy imports, arguing the measure has caused prices to soar across Europe.

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