Orbán explains why Hungary refuses to abandon Russian oil
Photo: Viktor Orbán, Prime Minister of Hungary (Getty Images)
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said that Hungary will not abandon Russian gas and oil. There are two main reasons for this decision, he said in an interview with Harcosok órája.
Orbán explained that while gas and oil come from Russia, halting imports would force Hungary to seek energy elsewhere.
"Any other supply source is less reliable than Russian energy secured by long-term contracts. In this way, Russia guarantees Hungary’s energy security," the Prime Minister said.
He also highlighted the economic aspect, noting that Russian energy is cheaper than alternatives, and giving it up would automatically require raising prices for households.
"Why should Hungarian families pay more for energy? This is not only an economic question but also one of social fairness," he added.
The Hungarian PM emphasized that Hungary is a sovereign state and makes its own decisions, independent of external pressure. He stressed that energy issues are closely linked to national security.
Orbán noted that any changes in energy supply affect not only the country’s economy but also its defense capabilities.
Previously, RBC-Ukraine reported that US President Donald Trump, during a briefing with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggested he could urge Hungary to stop buying Russian oil.
Shortly after, Trump spoke by phone with Orbán, during which the Hungarian Prime Minister told the US President that Hungary would not give up Russia’s cheap energy resources.
