EU to extend sanctions on Russia as Hungary backs down on objections

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has expressed confidence that the bloc will renew its sanctions on Russia, following Hungary's decision to lift its objections in exchange for assurances regarding energy security.

Kallas told reporters as she arrived for a meeting of EU foreign ministers on January 27, that she expected a decision to extend the sanctions, which are set to expire on January 31, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"I expect a decision to roll over the sanctions we have," Kallas stated.

The sanctions, which target Russia's economy in response to its war in Ukraine, include sector-based trade bans and restrictions that have frozen the central bank’s assets. Under EU law, all 27 member states must unanimously vote to renew these measures every six months.

Failure to do so could have significant consequences, such as the unfreezing of Russian assets in Europe, which are crucial for aiding Kyiv's defence efforts.

Hungary, which has traditionally maintained closer economic and political ties with Russia, had initially delayed the renewal process. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban had called for consultations with the Trump administration before agreeing to the renewal. However, US President Donald Trump, who has urged for greater pressure on Russia to enter peace talks, has yet to intervene decisively.

Hungary’s objections were further compounded by its dissatisfaction over Ukraine’s decision to terminate an agreement that allowed Russian gas to flow into Hungary. Despite these issues, Budapest signalled on January 27, that it was ready to support the sanctions' renewal at the upcoming ministers' meeting.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto outlined the conditions for Budapest’s approval in a post on Facebook.

"Our vote will depend on whether the European Commission will give guarantees that it will take steps every time the energy security of EU member states is threatened from outside the European Union," Szijjarto stated.

By Aghakazim Guliyev