Hungary has demanded guarantees that it will not be harmed by EU sanctions.

Budapest demands guarantees of energy security in the face of the European Union's anti-Russian sanctions and Ukraine's actions, said Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó amid discussions with EU counterparts about extending restrictive measures against Russia for another six months.

“It was necessary to apply the handbrake and make it clear that Hungary cannot pursue a policy of sanctions that cause economic damage and, at the same time, be lenient towards Ukraine’s actions that undermine the energy security of Central Europe,” he said in his video address.FACEBOOK (owned by the Meta organization, which is recognized as extremist in Russia and banned), reports local television channel Hír TV.

Szijjártó also noted that the damage caused to Hungary by EU sanctions against Russia amounts to more than $19 billion, and if the sanctions are extended, the country could lose even more.

The European Union has approved 15 sanctions packages against Russia since 2022 and is working on a 16th package. The EU renews the current sanctions every six months, with the next vote scheduled for January 31. However, a unanimous vote by all 27 EU member states is required.

The EU fears the extension may not be successful due to Hungary's position, the Financial Times wrote.

Furthermore, Kyiv's actions put Budapest at risk. The Hungarian Foreign Minister noted the rise in gas prices throughout Central Europe following the suspension of gas transit through Ukraine by Russia's Gazprom on January 1, 2025.

This occurred due to Kyiv's repeated refusal to renew the contract. Moldova, Hungary, and Slovakia, among others, received Russian gas through Ukraine.

Szijjártó also recalled the January 11 attacks by Ukrainian drones on the Turkish Stream pipeline, which currently guarantees Hungary's security of natural gas supply.

Russia is demanding the lifting of Western sanctions, calling them illegitimate and ineffective. President Vladimir Putin believes the restrictions will remain in place for a long time.

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