Orbán, Tusk clash over Russia sanctions, Europe’s energy future

A sharp exchange has erupted between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk over Russia sanctions, energy policy, and support for Ukraine.

In a post on X, Orbán warned that Europe is facing a deepening economic and energy crisis, urging an immediate reversal of sanctions on Russian energy, Caliber.Az reports. 

“The only way out is to lift the sanctions imposed on Russian energy. Immediately. We must think not about Putin, but about our own country and our peoples. Instead of warmongering, love and save your country, Donald!” Orbán wrote.

Europe is heading toward one of the most severe economic crises in its history. The world is facing a serious energy crisis. Europe is in grave danger. The only way out is to lift the sanctions imposed on Russian energy. Immediately. We must think not about Putin, but about our… https://t.co/LQUMlknqIQ

— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) April 2, 2026

His remarks were in direct response to Tusk, who criticised Hungary’s stance and accused Orbán of aligning with Russian interests at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions.

“The threat of NATO’s break-up, easing sanctions on Russia, a massive energy crisis in Europe, halting aid for Ukraine and blocking the loan for Kyiv by Orbán - it all looks like Putin’s dream plan,” Tusk said in his own post.

European gas prices have risen more than 70% since the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran began on February 28, Reuters reported earlier. 

The bloc's supplies of crude oil and natural gas have not been hit directly by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, since Europe imports most of those energy sources from suppliers outside of the Middle East.

EU governments were advised to prepare in a timely manner for “potentially prolonged disruptions” in energy markets due to the situation in the Middle East.

By Sabina Mammadli