Hungary sets conditions for extending EU sanctions against Russia – Reuters
Photo: Péter Szijjártó, Hungarian Foreign Minister (Getty Images)
Hungary wants the European Union to remove eight individuals from its sanctions list against Russia. In that case, it may support the extension of restrictions, Reuters informs.
According to the media outlet, unnamed EU diplomats said that in addition to lifting sanctions against eight individuals, Hungary also wants new guarantees regarding negotiations on gas transit through Ukraine.
The diplomats refused to disclose the names of the individuals Hungary wants to remove from the sanctions list due to the confidential nature of the discussions.
Meanwhile, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated on Monday, February 24, that the European Commission had failed to fulfill its commitment to include Hungary in negotiations on restoring gas transit to the EU through Ukraine.
It is worth noting that the discussion concerns the extension of sanctions against more than 2,400 individuals and entities. These restrictions are in effect until March 15, and a decision on their extension must be made by March 10. The decision requires the approval of all EU member states.
Hungary does not want to extend sanctions
Earlier, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that his country would not support the extension of sanctions against Russia.
The Hungarian foreign minister explained his decision by saying he "wants to allow time" for US-Russia negotiations on ending Russia’s war against Ukraine.
