«Druzhba» for cash: Zelenskyy sets terms for pipeline relaunch
Zelenskyy announced the timeline for the «Druzhba» restart and called for the opening of Ukraine’s EU accession negotiation clusters.
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Zelenskyy outlines position on Russian oil and EU integration / © Website of the President of Ukraine
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky announced a «window of opportunity» for Ukraine and the European Union, while also commenting on the status of the «Druzhba» oil pipeline and expectations from partners.
The statements were made during Zelenskyy’s interview on the «United News» telemarathon.
According to him, the current moment is critical for advancing European integration.
«This is a window of opportunity for Ukraine and for the countries of the European Union,» the head of state said.
«Druzhba» oil pipeline to be operational by late April
The president addressed the operation of the «Druzhba» pipeline, which he described as a sensitive issue.
«I know there is a painful issue for us—the „Druzhba“ oil pipeline. When will it start working? It will be ready to operate by the end of April. I know my position: I do not support the sale of Russian oil,» he noted.
Zelenskyy also emphasized that all parties must honor their agreements, particularly regarding the search for alternative energy sources.
«I know that for the Hungarians, this is a fundamental condition. Germany and other EU countries also emphasize this. We agreed that it should work, but alternative sources should have been prepared in the meantime,» he said.
The president stressed that Ukraine is fulfilling its obligations and expects the same from its partners.
«Therefore, on our part, we are fulfilling what we promised by the end of April. I believe the Hungarians will also fulfill their obligations and unblock the 90 billion,» he added.
Position on Ukraine’s EU integration
Zelenskyy also urged the European Union to accelerate the negotiation process regarding Ukraine’s membership.
«The European Union must deliver on its promises. Reach an agreement with the Hungarians, with the new governments, and with other partners. Ukraine has done everything—open the first cluster for us and let’s move forward step by step, without delay,» he said.
The head of state stressed that opening the negotiation clusters is a key stage on Ukraine’s path to EU membership.