Hungary Defies Trump’s NATO Demand, Refuses to Halt Russian Oil Imports

According to Rokna, citing reputable media outlets, speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that energy diversification remains unrealistic for Budapest under current conditions. “We cannot ensure the safe supply of energy without Russian oil or gas sources,” he emphasized, adding that replacing Russian energy is “a nice dream” that ignores infrastructural realities.

Szijjártó also sharply criticized Western European officials, calling them “fanatics,” and argued that rational, fact-based dialogue with them is no longer possible.

The dispute follows President Trump’s recent statement that NATO countries must halt Russian oil purchases before Washington imposes new sanctions on Moscow. Despite this, Hungary continues to rely on imports via the Druzhba pipeline, which also supplies neighboring Slovakia.

According to reports from The Guardian, AP, and Al Jazeera, Hungary’s defiance places it increasingly at odds with Brussels, where EU officials are considering stricter trade measures to enforce a united stance against Russia.

Hungary maintains that until viable infrastructure and supply alternatives are established, cutting off Russian oil would gravely damage its economy and industry.