According to a Euro News report, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is threatening to veto the renewal of European Union sanctions against Russia, which are set to expire on January 31. This move could unravel the EU’s strategy to pressure Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.
The sanctions, implemented since February 2022, include bans on trade, freezing €210 billion in Russian central bank assets, and cutting off key financial links. Renewing them requires unanimous approval from all EU member states every six months.
Orbán and his government argue that the sanctions harm Hungary’s economy and demand changes, including reopening gas transit routes from Russia through Ukraine. Meanwhile, diplomats worry that Orbán’s actions could weaken the EU’s united front against Russia.
Although Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó is expected to clarify the country’s position at a meeting on Monday, EU officials remain confident the sanctions will ultimately be renewed. The bloc is also preparing its 16th sanctions package against Russia, targeting approval by late February.
