In an interview released on X (formerly Twitter), Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban criticized Germany’s response to the destruction of the Russian-German Nord Stream pipelines. Orban stated that unlike Germany, Hungary would not remain silent if its energy supply routes were sabotaged.
Orban recalled that when the incident occurred last September, Budapest immediately labeled it as a terrorist attack. However, Germany and Western Europe have refrained from using that description. Orban emphasized that Hungary, along with Serbia, made it clear that if anyone attempted to sabotage the southern corridor pipeline, which brings gas from Russia through countries such as Turkey and Bulgaria, it would be considered a reason for war. He asserted that such actions could be tolerated with Germany, but not with the countries in the region.
During the interview, host Tucker Carlson suggested that the Biden administration had played a role in the destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines, either directly or through a proxy. Orban appeared to agree with Carlson’s assessment.
Orban clarified that his warning regarding the TurkStream pipeline was not directed at Russia, as Carlson had asked. The prime minister did not provide further details about the intended recipient of his message.
Investigative journalist Seymour Hersh had previously alleged that the United States was behind the Nord Stream attack and that Norway had assisted with the operation. He suggested that Washington saw an opportunity to weaken German economic ties with Russia during the Ukraine crisis. By destroying the energy links, the US aimed to ensure that Germany would be more compliant. Both the US and Norway have denied these allegations.
Based on leaks from officials, reports in the Western media have suggested that a “pro-Ukrainian group” was responsible for the sabotage. German outlets have also made similar claims, pointing to evidence that implicates Ukraine.
Russian officials have claimed that the US is the biggest beneficiary of the destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines. American producers of liquefied natural gas have taken over the Western European market, which was previously reliant on cheaper Russian pipeline fuel.
The interview highlights the tensions surrounding energy supply and infrastructure in Europe. It brings attention to the different responses and approaches taken by countries like Hungary and Germany in safeguarding their energy interests. Orban’s remarks also underscore the geopolitical implications of energy infrastructure and the potential for conflicts arising from its disruption or destruction.
It is important for countries in the region to carefully consider their energy security strategies and assess potential vulnerabilities. The incident involving the Nord Stream pipelines serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with energy transportation and the need for robust security measures.
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