Ukraine has restarted the flow of Russian oil through a major pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia, resolving a prolonged standoff that had blocked a critical €90 billion EU loan. This move marks a turning point in negotiations, enabling EU ambassadors in Brussels to give preliminary approval for the financial package. The support, equivalent to around £78 billion, is essential for Ukraine’s economic stability amid ongoing conflict. The decision follows months of delay caused by Hungary’s initial opposition, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, whose veto had prevented implementation.
Alongside the loan approval, EU officials also backed the 20th sanctions package targeting Russia, reinforcing collective European stance against Moscow. Formal endorsement of both the funding and sanctions is expected later in the week. The resumption of oil transit not only restores energy infrastructure functionality but also signals renewed diplomatic momentum. These developments underscore continued EU commitment to Ukraine’s resilience and regional security.