Hungary's stance: Opposing EU sanctions on Russian energy
The Hungarian Foreign Minister, Péter Szijjártó, announced that Hungary will oppose any EU sanctions on energy imports from Russia.
What do you need to know?
- Hungary opposes sanctions: Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that Hungary will not support any EU sanctions concerning energy imports from Russia.
- New sanctions in preparation: The 17th package of sanctions against Russia, related to attacks on Ukraine, was discussed at the meeting of foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
EU training mission: Hungary disagrees with implementing the EU training mission for Ukraine on its territory due to concerns about escalating the conflict.
Why does Hungary oppose sanctions?
During a press conference in Luxembourg, Péter Szijjártó expressed Hungary's stance against any European Union sanctions on energy imports from Russia.
The Hungarian minister emphasised that such actions could harm his country's interests. Hungary is one of the countries that relies on Russian energy resources, making it dependent on supplies from this direction.
What are the EU's plans regarding Russia?
At the meeting of foreign ministers in Luxembourg, the possibility of introducing the 17th package of sanctions against Russia was discussed.
These proposals are in response to recent missile attacks on Ukraine, which caused the death of many civilians.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys suggested that the new sanctions should include liquefied natural gas and the Russian nuclear company Rosatom.
What about the EU training mission for Ukraine?
Hungary also expressed opposition to implementing the European Union training mission for Ukraine on its territory. Péter Szijjártó argued that such actions could escalate the war.
The mission, which aims to strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities, has been extended until November 2026 and includes training in 24 EU countries.
