Top official: Hungary opposes EU plan to phase out Russian gas

Hungary has firmly rejected the European Commission’s proposal to gradually phase out imports of Russian gas and is prepared to fight the measure for as long as necessary, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

Szijjártó stated that Hungary does not intend to end its energy cooperation with Russia, arguing that the EU initiative violates European legislation, which allows member states to determine their own energy mix, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

He warned that enforcing such a measure would make Hungary increasingly dependent on certain resources, reversing progress made in diversifying the country’s energy supply.

He also described Russian energy resources as reliable and affordable, adding that Hungary sees no reason to switch suppliers as long as alternative options remain more expensive and less dependable. Szijjártó underlined that Hungary remains committed to energy cooperation with Russia and said that his visit to SPIEF was aimed at discussing this matter with business leaders and government officials.

Under the European Commission’s proposal, a full ban on EU imports of Russian gas would be phased in by the end of 2027. The plan would prohibit new contracts for Russian gas starting January 1, 2026. Imports under existing short-term contracts would end by June 17, 2026, while those under long-term contracts would cease by the end of 2027. The Commission intends to implement this measure as a trade regulation rather than a foreign policy move, which would allow it to be adopted by a qualified majority in the EU Council, removing the possibility of a national veto.

By Sabina Mammadli