Trump Voices Frustration Over Ukrainian Strikes Disrupting Oil Supplies to Hungary

President Donald Trump expressed sharp frustration over recent Ukrainian strikes that disrupted oil shipments to Hungary, a nation he has repeatedly described as a close ally.

The Pipeline Attack

Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces, led by Commander Robert Brovdi, known by his call sign Madyar, confirmed that drones targeted the Unecha oil pumping station in Russia, a critical hub on the Druzhba pipeline. The strike threatens to halt supplies to Hungary for several days, compounding energy concerns across the region.

The Druzhba pipeline had already sustained significant damage earlier this month, triggering fires that required extensive repairs completed on August 19. Friday’s attack marks the second major disruption in just a few weeks, highlighting the vulnerability of the energy network amid ongoing regional tensions.

Orbán and Trump Exchange Words

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán strongly condemned Ukraine’s actions, emphasizing Hungary’s role in providing energy assistance to Kyiv.

“Hungary supports Ukraine with electricity and fuel, and in return they strike the pipelines that supply us. This is not a friendly move,” Orbán said, signaling alignment with Trump’s calls for renewed negotiations to resolve the crisis.

In response, Trump publicly reaffirmed his support for Orbán, stating, “I do not like hearing this. I am very angry about it. You are my great friend.”

Regional Concerns

The incident prompted Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár to send a joint letter to the European Commission, warning that Ukraine’s strikes threaten energy security in both countries.

The ministers urged Brussels to implement robust safeguards for critical infrastructure, underscoring the perceived irresponsibility of attacks on key energy assets given the financial and military support the European Union has provided Ukraine in recent years.

Broader Escalation

At the same time, Russian officials reported that Ukraine launched drone strikes on energy facilities in the Kursk region, including a transformer at a nuclear power plant. Authorities said the resulting fire was quickly contained, with no casualties or radiation leaks reported.

What’s Next

The latest pipeline disruption adds a new layer of tension to already strained relations between Kyiv and its neighbors. For Trump, who has portrayed himself as a potential mediator in the ongoing war, the incident underscores the challenge of balancing U.S. support for Ukraine with the energy and security concerns of European allies reliant on Russian fuel.