Croatia takes offense at Hungary over 'unreliability' statement

After Ukraine halted the transit of oil from Russia to Slovakia and Hungary, the European Commission made a suggestion to these countries. Specifically, it was suggested to use the free capacities of the JANAF Adriatic pipeline in Croatia to supply Russian oil to both countries.

However, both states rejected the European Commission's proposal. The Hungarian Foreign Minister stated that Croatia is not a reliable country for transit. He also added that since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Croatia has quintupled oil transit prices.

In response, Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman said that this was a "politically deeply offensive statement."

"It is a politically deeply offensive statement that we did not expect from the representative of the country to which ill-intentioned moves we have long responded with extreme restraint and moderation," said the Croatian minister.

Background

It should be recalled that in connection with the imposition of sanctions, Ukraine stopped the transit of Lukoil oil to Hungary and Slovakia.

In response, the two countries started a scandal. In particular, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó wanted consultations during which the European Commission would represent the interests of the two countries in the European bloc.

He also clarified that if such consultations with Ukraine fail to reach agreements, there is the possibility of initiating arbitration proceedings.

Previously, RBC-Ukraine reported that Ukraine is ready for consultations on the transit of Lukoil oil if the European Union makes an appropriate decision.