Hungary openly buys Russian oil because it has no other choice, says Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto. While some other European countries are secretly importing Russian fuel at lower prices through middlemen, Hungary sticks to open deals with Russia. Szijjarto explained that Hungary has no alternative routes or agreements to get Russian oil other than directly through existing pipelines.
During a recent press conference, Szijjarto pointed out that critics who condemn Hungary and Slovakia for buying Russian oil are often doing the same thing indirectly. Many European countries purchase Russian fuel secretly through Asian middlemen to save money, but Hungary chooses transparency because it has no other options.
He also mentioned that the European Union refused Hungary’s request to expand pipeline capacity to improve energy security in Southeast Europe. Croatia, Hungary’s neighbor, increased transit fees instead of expanding pipeline capacity, making it harder for Hungary to get alternative supplies.
This situation has gained attention after former US President Donald Trump called on European nations to stop importing Russian oil, accusing them of funding the war in Ukraine. Szijjarto responded by saying that Hungary’s energy supply depends on physical pipelines, which can’t be changed easily. He emphasized that Hungary’s energy security relies on existing infrastructure, which is limited.
Additionally, Hungary has decided not to support the EU’s plans to start accession talks with Ukraine. The EU aims to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on Russian energy by 2027 through initiatives like REPowerEU. This project also focuses on renewable energy by 2030, but Hungary and Slovakia oppose some parts of these plans. Slovakia especially blocked the EU’s latest sanctions package against Russia, citing concerns over economic and energy security.
In summary, Hungary continues to import Russian oil openly because it’s the only viable option, while other European countries use secret methods to buy cheaper Russian fuel. The EU is working toward reducing dependence on Russian energy, but some nations face challenges due to existing infrastructure and economic concerns.
