As the conflict nears its fourth anniversary, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán faces mounting pressure from the European Union and the Trump administration to reduce Hungary’s dependence on Russian energy.
Once a vocal critic of Russia's influence during the Cold War, Orbán has dramatically shifted over the past decade. Now regarded as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s most steadfast supporter within the European Union, Orbán has nurtured close ties with Moscow despite Russia’s war against Ukraine.
At the same time, Orbán has aligned himself with President Donald Trump and the MAGA movement, which admires Hungary as an example of conservative nationalism, even amid concerns over the country’s democratic backsliding.
Orbán’s steadfast commitment to Russian energy supplies remains a contentious issue as the war in Ukraine continues. Both Brussels and Washington are pressuring Hungary to curtail these imports, which fund Moscow’s military operations.
“Orbán is under increasing pressure from both Brussels and Washington to end Hungary’s reliance on Russian oil, a resource seen as critical for funding Moscow’s war.”
Viktor Orbán’s upcoming meeting with President Trump will test the strength of their alliance, focusing on Hungary’s controversial energy ties with Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Author's summary: Orbán's continued dependence on Russian oil challenges his alliance with Trump, highlighting tension over energy policy amid the Ukraine conflict.