EU to propose full ban on Russian oil after Hungary elections, Reuters reports
Photo: Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission (Getty Images)
The European Commission will present a legal proposal on April 15 for a permanent ban on imports of Russian oil. This will take place three days after Hungary’s parliamentary elections, Reuters reports.
Political context and timing
According to two EU officials who spoke to the outlet, the timing of the proposal has been calculated to avoid influencing the election campaign in Hungary, where Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is facing the most serious challenge to his hold on power in the past 16 years.
Hungary and Slovakia, which still rely on Russian oil, strongly oppose any bans.
The EU aims to enshrine a complete phase-out of Russian oil in legislation. This would allow the restrictions to remain in place even if a future peace agreement on the war in Ukraine leads to the lifting of current sanctions.
Mechanism to bypass a veto
The European Union is expected to circumvent attempts by Budapest and Bratislava to block the decision. To do so, it plans to use legislation adopted by a qualified majority of member states rather than by unanimous vote.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen noted that the proposal provides for a gradual phase-out of Russian imports no later than the end of 2027.
A similar law on a full phase-out of Russian gas by the end of 2027 was adopted in the EU last month. Hungary and Slovakia have already pledged to challenge it in court.
Druzhba pipeline dispute
Oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia via the Druzhba pipeline have been suspended since January 27.
Ukraine says this was due to equipment damage caused by a Russian strike. In turn, Budapest and Bratislava place the responsibility on Ukraine.
Because of this dispute, Orbán’s government has already vetoed new sanctions against Russia and a major loan for Kyiv.
