US Pressures Hungary to Cut Russian Energy Ties as Sanctions Intensify

A report stated that US senators have urged Hungary to cease purchases of Russian energy resources ahead of a meeting between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and former US President Donald Trump. The lawmakers expressed concerns over Hungary’s continued reliance on Russian fossil fuels, calling on Orban to align with the European Union’s plan to halt imports by 2027. The resolution was signed by 10 senators from both major American political parties.

The US has intensified sanctions against Russian energy entities, including Rosneft and Lukoil, citing their involvement in the Russian energy sector. Meanwhile, the EU approved a proposal to ban Russian gas imports starting January 1, 2028, with restrictions on transit through member states set to take effect by 2026.

Hungary has sought alternative strategies to bypass these measures, according to Orban’s announcement on October 24. A Russian official praised Orban for prioritizing national interests transparently, emphasizing his alignment with domestic priorities.