In brief
President Trump met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to discuss potential U.S. sanctions relief on Russian energy imports for Hungary. Orbán stressed the critical nature of the issue for Hungary's energy security, arguing that landlocked countries face unique challenges. A bipartisan group of U.S. Senators has criticized Hungary's dependence on Russian energy. As part of the visit, Hungary plans to sign a nuclear cooperation agreement with the U.S. to purchase American nuclear fuel.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump stated on Friday that he is considering granting Hungary an exemption from U.S. sanctions on Russian energy during a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the White House. Trump noted, “We’re looking at it because it’s very difficult for him to get the oil and gas from other areas.”
Orbán underscored the issue as “vital” for Hungary, emphasizing the potential consequences for the Hungarian populace if the sanctions proceed. He mentioned he would propose various options to Trump for implementing an exemption.
“I’m not asking for some kind of gift from the Americans,” Orbán remarked during a state radio interview, “but a recognition that the sanctions imposed on Russian energy put landlocked countries like Hungary in an impossible situation.”
A sizable contingent of Hungarian officials, business leaders, and political supporters accompanied Orbán to Washington, having rented a 220-passenger flight from Wizz Air.
Before Orbán's arrival, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced a resolution urging Hungary to reduce its reliance on Russian energy imports. The resolution was co-signed by prominent senators from both parties, expressing concerns over Hungary's energy dependency.
“Europe has made extraordinary progress cutting ties with Moscow,” stated Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “However, Hungary continues to undermine collective security and embolden the Kremlin.”
On the same day, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó revealed plans to sign a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, involving the first purchase of American nuclear fuel for Hungary’s Paks nuclear plant.
After arriving in Washington, Orbán met with Eduardo Bolsonaro, son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, continuing to show support for those aligned with his government.
