Trump exempts Hungary from sanctions for buying Russian oil

Hungary received a one-year exemption from US sanctions on Russian oil imports after Prime Minister Orban's talks with President Trump. This matters as Hungary's economy heavily relies on Russian energy, complicating EU sanctions efforts.
Trump exempts Hungary from sanctions for buying Russian oil
Why it matters
During a recent meeting with US President Donald Trump, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban confirmed that Hungary has received a one-year exemption from US sanctions on Russian oil imports. Orban argued that Hungary's geographical constraints, lacking access to ports, make it heavily reliant on Russian energy supplies, with 74% of its gas and 86% of its oil sourced from Russia as of 2024. The exemption underscores Hungary's unique position within the EU, as it continues to oppose the European Commission's plans to phase out Russian energy imports by 2027. This situation complicates the EU's collective response to the war in Ukraine and highlights the rift between Hungary and other EU member states regarding energy policy and relations with Moscow.
TOPICS

Energy & Power Energy Transition

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