Viktor Orbán announced that Hungary will benefit from an exemption from US sanctions on energy transport from Russia, following discussions with Donald Trump.

Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary, stated that his country has obtained a complete exemption from the sanctions imposed by the USA on energy carriers from Russia for the Turkish Stream and Druzhba pipelines, following discussions with President Donald Trump. Orbán emphasized that this exemption will allow Hungary to maintain the lowest energy prices in Europe. However, a White House official clarified that the exemption is valid for only one year. Orbán explained that Hungary needs Russian oil to ensure energy supply security and to keep prices affordable. Additionally, Hungary will diversify its gas sources, including by purchasing liquefied natural gas from the USA. The Prime Minister also mentioned agreements in the nuclear field, including collaboration with the American company Westinghouse. Although Hungary has obtained the exemption from American sanctions, Orbán acknowledged that the fight against European sanctions is another subject of negotiation. This situation raises questions about the application of sanctions against Russia and about the relations between the USA and Hungary in the current geopolitical context.