The Hungarian leader’s anger is directed at the recent end of a deal between Moscow and kyiv aimed at maintaining supplies of cheap Russian gas to Europe. Orbán and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico insist that the loss of supplies will have dire consequences for their energy costs and security. But Ukraine categorically refuses to renew the agreement and the EU says the two countries can easily find other sources of fuel.
It’s a change in message for Orbán, who previously argued that the EU should wait to see what Donald Trump does with sanctions against Russia before renewing its own. But he lost that line of attack earlier this week after Trump unexpectedly threatened Vladimir Putin with new sanctions. Today, the Hungarian Prime Minister turns his attention to Ukraine.
“The Ukrainians, even though it is in their interest to impose sanctions, are now sticking their noses in and manipulating the Hungarians, even in energy terms, because they are not allowing Russian gas to flow to the Hungary,” Orbán said. .
Nonetheless, three diplomats familiar with the sanctions negotiations said they still expected the populist prime minister to ultimately authorize the reauthorization, perhaps as soon as Monday, when foreign ministers meet in Brussels. Authorities have until next Friday to reach an agreement.
Is Monday the day?
An EU envoy, who like others was granted anonymity to speak freely about the closed-door discussions, predicted the renewal would come on Monday, even though Hungary had expressed “reservations.” during the preparatory meetings.
“They like drama,” the envoy joked.
