Trump Meets Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán Amid Energy Tensions
As the conflict nears its fourth year, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is under mounting pressure from the European Union and the Trump administration to reduce Hungary's dependence on Russian energy.
Orbán plans to meet President Donald Trump at the White House on Friday, aiming to persuade the U.S. administration to overlook Hungary’s persistent purchase of Russian oil. This meeting could reveal the strength of the personal and political ties between the two leaders.
Orbán’s Shift Toward Moscow
Once a vocal critic of Russia’s influence in Hungary during the Cold War, Orbán has shifted dramatically over the past decade. Now considered Russian President Vladimir Putin’s staunchest supporter within the European Union, Orbán has maintained close ties with the Kremlin despite Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
Alliance with Trump and the MAGA Movement
Orbán has also garnered support from Trump and his MAGA movement, which praises Hungary as a model of conservative nationalism even as democratic institutions in the country weaken.
"Trump is scheduled to appear with Orbán at 11:45 a.m."
"Widely considered Russian President Vladimir Putin’s most reliable advocate in the European Union, Orbán has maintained warm relations with the Kremlin despite its war against Ukraine."
Pressure to End Russian Energy Dependence
With the Russia-Ukraine war approaching its fourth anniversary, Orbán faces rising pressure from Brussels and Washington to stop depending on Russian oil, a crucial source of funding for Moscow’s military efforts.
Justin Spike and Chris Megerian of the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Author’s summary: Viktor Orbán’s visit to President Trump highlights the complex ties between Hungary, Russia, and the U.S., as international pressure mounts over Hungary’s reliance on Russian energy amidst the Ukraine war.