Orban ties Russian sanctions to conditions on gas transit
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is conditioning the extension of sanctions against Russia on Ukraine, meeting several conditions. Among these, he mentions the resumption of the transit of Russian gas through its territory and ensuring the security of oil supplies.
Prime Minister Viktor Orban stated that he would agree to extend sanctions against Russia only if Ukraine meets specific conditions. According to "Kommersant," Orban demands the resumption of gas transit from Russia and assurances that attacks on the "Turkish Stream" will be halted.
Let's recall that Kyiv did not renew the 5-year agreement between Russia and Ukraine on gas transit after it expired on January 1, 2025. As a result, Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria lost access to the affordable resources offered by Vladimir Putin.
Orban emphasized that Ukraine should also guarantee that oil transit will not be interrupted. "If you want Europe to continue sanctions, and we bear their costs, then at least reduce our financial losses," Orban said on Kossuth radio.
The decision to extend sanctions requires the unanimous approval of all 27 EU member states. The next vote on this issue will take place on January 31, in Eastern Time. Previously, Orban had appealed for the lifting of sanctions, arguing that they harm the European economy.
