Hungary threatens to veto Russian energy sanctions
According to webangah News Agency, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated during a radio interview that Budapest must be “not only cautious but firm in opposing any decision prohibiting Russian gas use” in Brussels negotiations on the matter.
Orbán argued that the European Commission’s proposed measure would increase Hungary’s annual energy costs by €2 billion, triggering sharp rises in housing and public service expenses for citizens.
The Prime Minister reiterated Budapest’s legal objections to Brussels’ proposals, which he claims violate EU laws. Hungary maintains the initiative is purely political rather than economic, equivalent to sanctions requiring unanimous EU member approval – giving Hungary veto rights.
“We cannot allow sanctions against Russian energy to be imposed on Hungary,” Orbán told Kossuth Radio. He criticized leaders from Germany, Czech Republic and other EU states for prioritizing energy price hikes over reductions while seeking to damage Russia through import bans and Ukrainian aid packages.
“For them, banning Russian goods and helping Ukraine matters more than our families’ welfare or businesses,” Orbán said, emphasizing Hungary will continue defending its opposing stance during EU meetings in Brussels.
