Separate incidents struck oil facilities in Hungary and Romania on Monday, both processing Russian crude, prompting investigations by local authorities.
Fire in Hungary’s primary refining facility, operated by MOL Group near Százhalombatta outside Budapest, erupted Monday evening. Regional firefighters assisted plant personnel in controlling the flames. The company reports work has resumed at portions of the complex unaffected by damage. The facility receives Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline system.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán assured citizens that Hungary’s fuel availability faces no disruption.
Hours earlier in Romania, an explosion occurred at a Ploiești refinery owned by Russian company Lukoil during scheduled maintenance work. Authorities suspect gas buildup in a pipeline inspection shaft caused the blast. One worker required hospital treatment and remains in stable condition. No fire followed the explosion.
Both governments have opened technical reviews to determine what caused the incidents. Officials have not announced timelines for completing their investigations.
The events unfold as European Union members debate strategies for reducing reliance on Russian energy imports.
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