Orbán Urges EU to Lift Russian Sanctions to Protect Europe’s Economy

Viktor Orbán has urged the European Union to remove sanctions on Russia to prevent damaging the bloc’s economy.

During an interview on state radio, the Hungarian prime minister warned that maintaining the sanctions could lead to an economic crisis in Europe.

Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the EU imposed multiple rounds of sanctions on Russia, targeting its energy sector, financial institutions, mining companies, and other businesses linked to the Kremlin.

Orbán stated: “Lowering energy prices is essential, and this requires a reconsideration of sanctions because the current policy will not lead to a decrease in energy prices.”

He added that failure to lift sanctions could be detrimental to the European economy, emphasizing the importance of addressing the disparity in energy costs between U.S. and European companies.

Orbán highlighted that this action aligns with the competitiveness declaration signed by EU leaders at the recent summit.

Recently, the European Parliament passed a resolution urging the EU to take a stand against Russia’s illegal oil exports by its “shadow fleet” of ships and recommended a complete ban on fossil fuel imports from Russia, a measure Orbán opposes.

Previously, Orbán secured exemptions from sanctions to ensure Hungary can continue importing oil and gas from Russia, which he views as crucial to the country’s economy.

Hungary relies heavily on Russia for gas and oil supplies, with approximately 80-85% of gas and four-fifths of crude oil coming from Russia.

Budapest’s close ties with Russia have positioned Hungary as a vocal opponent of sanctions since the conflict began, with Orbán also anticipating that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will work towards peace in Ukraine.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.