Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has once again made a sharp statement, saying that his country will not support new sanctions against Russia until Ukraine resumes the transit of Russian gas through its territory. This was the result of Ukraine's decision to stop the transit of Russian gas from January 1, 2025, ending a ten-year dependence on this energy resource.
In an interview with the publication 24.HU, Viktor Orban did not hide his dissatisfaction with Ukraine's actions, accusing Kyiv of trying to "stab" the Central European countries.
"Ukrainians want to prick us to be polite. There are stronger expressions in the vernacular," Orbán said.
He also noted that Ukraine could provide gas transit if it cooperated with neighboring states, particularly Serbia. Orban emphasized 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," added the Hungarian Prime Minister.
Despite criticism of Ukraine, Orbán recognized the merits of the Hungarian government in providing alternative energy supply routes. He praised Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó for creating a southern route that allows Hungary to obtain gas from other sources.
However, Orban emphasized that fuel for Hungarians is becoming more and more expensive, and blamed Ukraine's "games" for this. He said he had hit the "handbrake" on sanctions talks with European leaders to stop what he considered unacceptable.
Ukraine stopped the transit of Russian gas from the beginning of 2025, ending a decade of energy dependence. This bold move caused mixed reactions in Europe. Some countries, in particular Poland and the Baltic states, supported this decision, noting that it weakens Russia's influence on Europe's energy security. Others, such as Slovakia, have expressed concern about possible supply disruptions.
Orbán's statements add tension to 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 decision-making regarding the EU's common position in the confrontation with Russia.
