Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has reiterated his willingness to veto the renewal of European sanctions against Russia. This position, arising amidst economic and geopolitical tensions, could be reversed if the European Union (EU) persuades Ukraine to restore the transit of Russian gas to Central Europe.
Since the beginning of the year, Ukraine has halted the delivery of Russian gas transiting through its territory, citing the expiration of a contract signed in 2019. While this decision has affected several countries in the region, Hungary has been relatively less impacted thanks to the TurkStream pipeline, which transports Russian gas directly via the Black Sea. Nevertheless, Budapest insists on preserving this alternative route while advocating for the resumption of transit through Ukraine.
Conditions Imposed by Budapest
In a statement to a local radio station, Viktor Orban asserted that Europe should intensify efforts to persuade Ukraine rather than expecting Hungary to unconditionally accept sanctions. This stance reflects Budapest’s diplomatic closeness to Moscow, which Orban has never sought to conceal despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Hungarian leader also criticized the economic pressure caused by the sanctions, which he deems responsible for his country’s financial struggles. Refusing any military aid to Ukraine, Hungary emphasizes its national energy interests and calls for a pragmatic resolution of disputes within the EU.
A Contentious Sanctions Renewal
Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, the European Union has imposed fifteen rounds of sanctions on Moscow. These measures primarily target the energy and financial sectors, but their renewal requires unanimous agreement from all 27 member states. With the next decision expected by January 31, Hungary’s potential veto could complicate the process.
Meanwhile, Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat, has urged member states to maintain a firm stance against Russia despite Budapest’s reservations. This position is supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has mentioned the possibility of additional measures against Moscow should disagreements over the Ukraine conflict persist.
A Fragile Energy Balance
The current situation highlights the energy dependency of certain European Union countries on Russian gas. While the EU has sought to diversify its supply sources since the war began, several member states, including Hungary and Slovakia, remain vulnerable to supply disruptions.
Viktor Orban’s expressed determination to protect national economic interests underscores growing tension between European solidarity and individual national priorities. As the meeting of EU foreign ministers approaches on Monday, the bloc will need to tread carefully to avoid a deadlock on this highly sensitive issue.
