Why it matters:
The sanctions, introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump to pressure Moscow into a ceasefire in Ukraine, have triggered backlash from several countries. Hungary, which obtains the majority of its oil from Russia, views these restrictions as a direct threat to its energy infrastructure. MOL Group, Hungary’s national oil company, and its Slovak subsidiary, Slovnaft, are currently assessing the impact of the sanctions, which are set to take effect in late November.
What they're saying:
“We are working on how to circumvent this sanction,” Orbán told reporters, adding that discussions with MOL executives are already underway. He emphasized that Hungary would not allow its energy supply to be compromised by external political decisions.
China has also criticized the sanctions, stating that they lack legitimacy under international law and were not authorized by the UN Security Council.
Beijing warned that unilateral restrictions could destabilize global energy markets. Meanwhile, Russia dismissed the sanctions as ineffective.
President Vladimir Putin said the sanctions would not significantly harm the Russian economy, while Dmitry Medvedev labeled Trump “an enemy of Russia” and called the move an act of war.
By the numbers:
MOL’s refineries in Hungary and Slovakia process a combined 14.2 million tons of crude oil annually.
Following the announcement of the sanctions, Brent crude futures rose by 5%, reflecting market anxiety over potential supply disruptions.
The bottom line:
Hungary’s defiance signals a growing rift within the Western alliance over energy policy and sanctions enforcement. As Orbán positions himself as a defender of national interests, Washington may face increasing resistance from allies unwilling to sacrifice energy stability for geopolitical pressure.
Go deeper:
Hungarian PM warns Ukraine EU membership could increase regional war risk
Hossein Amiri - A.Akbari
