Trump Considers Energy Sanction Exemption for Hungary

Sat Nov 08 2025 04:23:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Amid discussions with Hungary's Prime Minister, President Trump contemplates easing energy sanctions on Russia for Hungary's benefit.

During a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the White House, President Trump indicated he might grant Hungary an exemption from U.S. sanctions on Russian energy. Orbán emphasized that access to oil and gas is essential for his landlocked nation. This discussion coincides with a bipartisan push from U.S. senators urging Hungary to reduce its reliance on Russian energy supplies. The dialogue reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions and Hungary's unique energy challenges.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said on Friday he’s considering granting Hungary an exemption from U.S. sanctions on Russian energy as he met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the White House.

Orbán stressed that this is a 'vital' issue for Hungary, a landlocked country facing difficulty obtaining oil and gas from other sources. He stated he would present Trump with suggestions for this exemption to mitigate the situation for the Hungarian people.

Orbán indicated that the sanctions put Hungary in a 'difficult position,' and he conveyed to Trump that his request isn't a gift but a matter of essential energy supply.

A delegation of cabinet members and business leaders accompanied Orbán, highlighting the significance of this trip as they arrived on a chartered commercial jet.

Before Orbán's visit, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators urged Hungary to reduce its dependence on Russian energy, expressing concerns over Hungary's hesitance to align with European Union energy policies aimed at diminishing Russian fuel imports by 2027.

Additionally, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced plans to sign an agreement with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to initiate Hungary's purchase of American nuclear fuel, marking a pivot away from reliance on Russian energy sources.

This meeting marks an important point in U.S.-Hungarian relations, reflecting broader discussions around energy security and geopolitical strategies in response to Russia’s actions.