Trump Exempts Hungary from Russian Oil Sanctions: Critics Decry Corruption and Collusion
The United States has granted Hungary an indefinite exemption from sanctions on Russian oil purchases, a significant win for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán following a meeting with Donald Trump. This decision allows Hungary to continue importing Russian oil and natural gas through its pipelines, contrasting with broader European Union efforts to reduce Russian energy dependence. The exemption coincides with growing economic challenges and political opposition within Hungary, as well as a new series of energy agreements with the US, including a nuclear fuel contract and potential deals for LNG and small modular reactors. While preserving Hungary’s access to Russian energy and allowing the US to exert leverage, the long-term impact on Orbán’s political standing and Hungary’s geopolitical alignment remains uncertain.
John Q. Hosedrinker