Orban Threatens to Block EU Sanctions Against Russia Unless Ukraine Resumes Gas Transit by January 31

Jan 24, 2025, 08:45 AM

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has threatened to block the renewal of the European Union's sanctions against Russia unless Ukraine resumes the transit of Russian gas to Europe. The EU's sanctions regime, which requires unanimous support from all 27 member states to be extended, is set to expire on January 31. Orban's stance has introduced uncertainty into the upcoming decision, as he has linked the continuation of sanctions to Ukraine's actions regarding gas transit. He has also criticized the sanctions, claiming they have cost Hungary 19 billion euros over the past three years. EU foreign ministers are scheduled to discuss the sanctions extension at a meeting on January 27, with diplomats expressing confidence that the sanctions will ultimately be renewed despite Hungary's position.