The United States granted Hungary a one-year exemption from sanctions on Russian oil imports, following a meeting between Prime Minister Viktor Orban and the U.S. president. The exemption specifically applies to oil and gas delivered via the Druzhba and TurkStream pipelines. Orban had argued for the waiver by explaining his landlocked country's heavy reliance on Russian pipeline supplies and the physical difficulty of securing alternatives.
International Monetary Fund data indicate Hungary depended on Russia for the vast majority of its gas and oil in 2024. The U.S. president acknowledged the logistical challenges Hungary faces in finding other energy sources. During their discussions, the American leader also suggested that other European nations should show greater respect for Orban and his policies.
International Monetary Fund data indicate Hungary depended on Russia for the vast majority of its gas and oil in 2024. The U.S. president acknowledged the logistical challenges Hungary faces in finding other energy sources. During their discussions, the American leader also suggested that other European nations should show greater respect for Orban and his policies.
