Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has once again made a strong statement, saying his country will not support new sanctions against Russia until Ukraine resumes the transit of Russian gas through its territory. This follows Ukraine's decision to stop transiting Russian gas on January 1, 2025, ending a decade-long dependence on this energy resource.
In an interview with 24.HU, Viktor Orban did not hide his dissatisfaction with Ukraine's actions, accusing Kyiv of trying to "prick" Central European countries.
“Ukrainians want to tease us to be polite. There are stronger expressions in the vernacular,” Orban said.
He also noted that Ukraine could ensure gas transit if it cooperated with neighboring states, including Serbia. Orban stressed that Hungary is not ready to support sanctions against Russia until Ukraine resumes the operation of the gas pipeline.
“If they want help, let them reopen the gas pipeline. My dear Ukrainian comrades, you cannot interfere in the affairs of Central European countries, behave decently,” the Hungarian prime minister added.
Despite his criticism of Ukraine, Orbán acknowledged the Hungarian government's efforts to secure alternative energy supply routes. He praised Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó for creating a southern route that allows Hungary to obtain gas from other sources.
However, Orban stressed that fuel is becoming increasingly expensive for Hungarians, and blamed this on Ukraine’s “games.” He said he had put the “handbrake” on negotiations with European leaders on sanctions to stop processes he considers unacceptable.
Ukraine has stopped transiting Russian gas from the beginning of 2025, ending decades of energy dependence. The bold move has drawn mixed reactions in Europe. Some countries, including Poland and the Baltic states, have supported the decision, saying it weakens Russia's influence on Europe's energy security. Others, such as Slovakia, have expressed concerns about potential supply disruptions.
Orban's statements add to the tension in relations between Hungary, Ukraine and the European Union. The Hungarian prime minister's rhetoric, which again appeals to energy dependence and accuses Ukraine of interfering in the affairs of Central Europe, may complicate decisions on a common EU position in the confrontation with Russia.
