Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent visit to Washington appeared to deliver exactly what he wanted: warm praise and a U.S. exemption from sanctions on Russian oil, gas, and nuclear imports just months before a challenging election.
Yet beneath the surface, the outcome was more complex. While Hungary gained temporary relief from sanctions, analysts say the U.S. struck a tough trade deal that could prove costly for Budapest. More importantly, there was no progress on Orban’s top concern ending the war in neighbouring Ukraine, a conflict that continues to weigh heavily on Hungary’s economy and politics.
The one-year exemption, confirmed by a White House official, contrasts with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó’s claim that it would be indefinite. Many observers see the timing as strategic, with President Trump keen to bolster his ally ahead of Hungary’s April election. The exemption also loosely aligns with the EU’s goal of phasing out Russian energy imports by 2027. However, Orban has yet to pledge compliance, unlike other EU members such as the Czech Republic.
Meanwhile, Hungary’s leading energy company, MOL, has been upgrading its refineries in Százhalombatta and Bratislava to handle Brent crude rather than Russian Urals. MOL says that up to 80% of Hungary’s oil needs could now come via the Adria pipeline from Croatia though ata higher cost and risk.
Also Read:
Due to Government Shutdown cuts, Thousands of US Flights Were Canceled or Delayed
In a Historic Ukrainian Trial, a Russian Soldier Was Given a Life Sentence
