US convinces Hungary to continue sanctions against Russia

Budapest has reversed its stance on the extension of the European Union’s anti-Russian sanctions, which were set to expire in January this year, following a telephone conversation between Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, per Politico.

Earlier this year, Hungary threatened to veto the routine renewal of the EU sanctions, citing concerns over the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House. However, in an unexpected turn, Trump later signaled that he would impose even stricter measures on Russia, softening Hungary’s opposition.

Rubio, in an urgent call to Szijjártó, urged the Hungarian minister not to disrupt the EU's sanctions framework, according to two senior officials speaking anonymously to Politico. Sources indicated that the U.S. diplomatic pressure played a key role in persuading Hungary to withdraw its objections, ensuring that Russian assets remained frozen and trade embargoes were extended.

The Hungarian Foreign Ministry declined to comment when approached for clarification on the matter.

However, Trump’s future actions could still pose a challenge to the EU’s sanctions strategy. Should the U.S. president alter his approach and offer to ease restrictions in bilateral talks with Russia, it could undermine the EU’s leverage. Given the bloc’s requirement for unanimity in sanctions decisions, such a shift could create complications for future sanctions renewal efforts.

By Khagan Isayev