Orban Hints At Ukrainian Sabotage Behind Hungary Refinery Fire

Suspicion arose after fires and explosions hit oil refineries in Hungary and Romania, both with Russian connections. The incidents targeted the Lukoil-owned Petrotel refinery in Romania and Hungary's MOL-operated Danube Refinery, which receives Russian crude oil. Sabotage, possibly by Ukrainian intelligence, was initially suspected due to the EU's efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy. Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán stated the investigation into the Danube Refinery fire considers accident, malfunction, or external attack. Orbán referenced a Polish foreign minister's suggestion to blow up the Druzhba oil pipeline, hoping it wasn't such a case. He has instructed MOL not to raise energy prices following the refinery fire. Hungary relies heavily on the Druzhba pipeline for Russian oil. Orban mentioned MOL is working to circumvent new US sanctions targeting Russian oil. The US sanctions are intended to pressure Russia's energy sector and hinder its war efforts. These sanctions have increased oil prices and raised concerns about energy supply in Eastern and Central Europe.