Finance
Kremlin Says 'highly Likely' That Ukraine Planted Explosives Near Hungary-Bound Gas Pipeline
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on April 6, 2026
2 min readLast updated: April 6, 2026
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Quick Summary
The Kremlin asserts it is “highly likely” that Ukraine planted explosives by a gas pipeline in Serbia supplying Hungary, despite Kyiv’s categorical denial and allegations the incident may be a Russian false‑flag. Hungary and Serbia have boosted pipeline security amid heightened regional energy tensi
Kremlin Claims Ukraine Likely Planted Explosives Near Hungary-Bound Gas Pipeline
Incident Overview and International Reactions
Discovery of Explosives Near TurkStream Pipeline
MOSCOW, April 6 (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Monday that while there was not yet conclusive evidence it was highly likely that proof would be found showing Ukraine had planted explosives found near a gas pipeline in Serbia which carries Russian gas to Hungary.
Hungarian Response and Political Context
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban - who faces a difficult re-election contest on Sunday - convened an emergency defence council on Sunday after explosives were found near the TurkStream pipeline in Serbia.
Ukraine's Position and Denial
Orban said Ukraine had for years sought to cut Europe off from Russian energy, though he didn't directly blame Kyiv for the incident. Ukraine's foreign ministry rejected any attempt to link it to the explosive.
Kremlin's Statements and Accusations
Potential Threats to Energy Infrastructure
"The situation is potentially very dangerous. This is a vital energy artery, which is currently operating under extreme strain. And prior to this, as we know, the Kyiv regime was directly involved in such acts of sabotage against critical energy infrastructure," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
Likelihood of Ukrainian Involvement
"It is highly likely that signs of the Kyiv regime’s involvement will be found this time too," he added, saying Moscow hoped that Budapest and Belgrade would act to minimise the threat.
Diplomatic Hopes and Warnings
"We also hope that, during recent talks (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelenskiy held in Ankara, the head of the Kyiv regime was made aware that such aggressive actions against the infrastructure of the South Stream and Blue Stream pipelines are unacceptable".
(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Anna Peverieri;Editing by Andrew Osborn)
Key Takeaways
- •Kremlin claims Ukraine likely planted explosives near TurkStream pipeline, though evidence is still inconclusive, prompting cooperation between Moscow, Budapest and Belgrade to secure the route. (eadaily.com)
- •Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry strongly rejects the Kremlin’s allegations, calling the incident a false‑flag likely orchestrated to influence Hungary’s April 2026 election. (eadaily.com)
- •TurkStream/Balkan Stream pipelines are critical infrastructure supplying Russian gas to Hungary and other Balkan countries, making any sabotage highly disruptive amid Europe's shifting energy dynamics. (en.wikipedia.org)
References
Frequently Asked Questions about Kremlin says 'highly likely' that Ukraine planted explosives near Hungary-bound gas pipeline
1What incident occurred near the Hungary-bound gas pipeline?
Explosives were found near a pipeline in Serbia carrying Russian gas to Hungary, prompting concerns over energy security.
2Who does the Kremlin suspect is responsible for the explosives?
The Kremlin said it is highly likely that Ukraine planted the explosives, though conclusive evidence has not yet been presented.
3What actions did Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban take after the discovery?
Viktor Orban convened an emergency defence council after the explosives were discovered near the TurkStream pipeline.
4How did Ukraine respond to being linked to the incident?
Ukraine's foreign ministry rejected any attempt to associate it with planting explosives near the gas pipeline.
5Why is the gas pipeline significant?
The pipeline is a vital energy artery supplying Russian gas to Hungary, and any threat against it poses risks to European energy stability.
