Orban's Diplomatic Dance in Washington: Navigating U.S. Sanctions

Hungary's leader, Viktor Orban, is set to explore the implications of new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil firms during a significant meeting with President Donald Trump next week in Washington. The discussion arises amid concerns for Hungary's energy supply, with the sanctions impacting major Russian oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft.

The sanctions, imposed by Trump in a bid to influence Russia regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine, have created uncertainty for Hungary and Slovakia, key buyers of Russian oil within the European Union. Orban's visit, anticipated since mid-October, aims to clarify these impacts before the sanctions become effective in late November.

While Orban has hinted at plans to navigate the sanctions, he has not indicated defiance of the measures. His rapport with Trump, bolstered by shared ideologies particularly on immigration, will likely influence discussions that also cover economic strategies. The outcome could shape Hungary's energy policies ahead of the 2026 elections.