Tensions between Hungary and Croatia appear to be easing after a period of sharp accusations, during which Croatian authorities were accused of benefiting from the war in Ukraine and sanctions on Russia.
State-owned Croatian oil pipeline operator JANAF confirmed that Hungarian company MOL will send representatives to Zagreb next week to start negotiations on importing crude oil from European sources through the Croatian pipeline system, reducing reliance on Russian supply. This topic was also discussed during a meeting between Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban at a European leaders’ summit in Copenhagen.
JANAF stated that EU pressure to decrease dependence on Russian oil prompted Hungary to reconsider its stance. A formal proposal has already been sent to MOL to cover the company’s full refining capacity using oil delivered via Croatian infrastructure. JANAF has confirmed that MOL’s leadership, led by a vice president, is ready to begin talks in early October.
The move follows weeks of strained rhetoric. Both Croatian and Hungarian leaders signaled a change in tone after their Copenhagen meeting. Prime Minister Plenkovic rejected claims that Croatia sought to profit from the conflict, emphasizing that JANAF serves both Croatian energy security and the needs of neighboring countries, including Hungary and Slovakia.
After earlier critical statements, Prime Minister Orban publicly shifted his position, noting that MOL and JANAF will begin negotiations next week, with pricing expected to be a key focus. He stressed that Hungary’s priority is securing affordable energy for households and industries and described Croatia as a long-standing strategic partner deserving of Hungary’s respect.
