Hungary has threatened to block the latest extension of European Union sanctions against Russia, citing significant concerns over the country’s energy security. Speaking to reporters, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto stated, “We are clear: Hungary may veto sanctions if we feel our energy security is at risk.” The warning from Budapest highlights the growing tensions within the EU on how to handle the situation as the war with Russia continues.
This potential veto follows Hungary’s complex history with the EU’s anti-Russian measures. Since the initiation of full-scale military actions by Russia against Ukraine, the EU has diligently imposed sanctions intended to curb Russian aggression. Yet the harsh reality is these sanctions require unanimous approval from all member states to remain effective—an aspect Hungary has exploited before.
Back on December 19, Hungary unexpectedly blocked the renewal of these sanctions, frustrating many EU leaders. Many considered Hungary’s move shocking as it previously supported the sanctions. Influential Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has maintained a historically close relationship with Russia, complicate Budapest’s actions. Meanwhile, over the past three years, Hungary has consistently pushed for sanctions to be lifted, arguing they hurt its economy without yielding substantial results for Ukraine’s defense.
On January 27, Hungary did reverse its veto under pressure, allowing the sanctions to proceed for six additional months. This sudden change is believed to intersect with geopolitical pressures from the U.S. After President Donald Trump took office for his second term, he made strong statements about taking tough actions against Russia, which some speculate influenced Orban’s decision.
At the heart of Hungary’s reluctance to support the EU’s sanctions might be concerns about its energy dependency on Russian gas, especially after Ukraine ceased the flow of gas through its territory—which previously relied on pipelines crossing Ukraine to reach Hungary. Orban’s government argued this situation left Hungary vulnerable, stating the nation did not have the resources to tap alternative sources of energy without facing economic repercussions.
“We need guarantees from the European Commission ensuring Ukraine’s actions won’t jeopardize our energy security,” Szijjarto said. The Hungarian Foreign Minister indicated previous discussions with the European Commission included commitments to bolster Hungary’s energy safety.
Even as Hungary utilized its veto power, news reports suggested the EU had made concessions to satisfy Hungarian demands. Hungary received reassurances from the EU to establish viable alternative energy sources, which were pivotal for Budapest agreeing to lift its veto. The EU is now confronting not only the sophisticated reality of maintaining sanctions but also the vast divergences within member states, each with its own interests.
Since Russia’s military actions began, the sanctions have included restrictions on trade, financial transactions, technology transfers, and shipping, alongside other targeted financial measures against key Russian entities and individuals. Yet, three years post-implementation, there is still no solid evidence indicating these sanctions have effectively pressured Russia to halt its aggression. Russian revenues from commodities, including oil and gas, have demonstrated resilience amid Western policies.
According to various sources, the EU hopes to extend sanctions by increasing restrictions on Russian imports and exports but finds itself struggling with Hungary’s pivotal role as it crafts sanctions packages. Szijjarto’s remarks signal their interest is both self-serving and tied to broader geopolitical relationships dictated by energy security.
Hungary’s caution toward maintaining sanctions consistently draws attention to its longstanding position as one of the EU’s more Russia-friendly member states. Critics, including officials from Eastern European countries directly bordering Russia, have expressed frustration at Hungary’s approach. They argue sanctions must be escalated to signal NATO’s resolve against Russian aggression.
“From our standpoint, the EU’s existing sanctions appear insufficient,” said Lithuanian Energy Minister Zygimantas Vaiciunas. The vulnerability of Eastern European nations to Russian influence complicates collective EU strategies moving forward.
Although Hungary managed to temporarily stave off sanctions, the overall EU position remains one of solidarity against external threats. Trump’s influence, EU concessions, and Hungary’s energy needs intertwine to form the complex fabric guiding Budapest’s response to sanctions against Russia. The EU will likely face more challenges reconciling different agendas to address the pressing reality posed by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
What remains clear is Hungary’s unique role within the EU’s difficult balancing act. With growing concerns over energy security, the pressure within the EU is mounting to evaluate the stability and sustainability of its sanctions strategy against Russia.