Hungary’s EU Presidency Puts Brussels on Edge

As the focus in Brussels shifts to the selection of new EU commissioners, Hungary’s six-month EU presidency has drawn attention with a series of controversial moves.

Political analysts, like Thu Nguyen, believe that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been using this time to influence EU affairs, despite expectations of little legislative work under the presidency.

Orban’s recent actions, including a disruptive visit to Kyiv, Moscow, and Beijing, have caught the EU off guard. The latest issue revolves around a shortage of Russian oil supplies to Hungary via Ukraine, threatening the country’s energy security.

Hungary Faces Energy Crisis

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto raised concerns over Ukraine’s transit ban on Russian oil company Lukoil, endangering Hungary’s energy security and causing potential electricity shortages and high energy prices for Hungarians.

Despite EU sanctions on Russian oil purchases, Hungary’s dependence on Russian supplies has increased, signaling Orban’s reluctance to diversify energy sources. Calls for EU mediation have led to tense discussions between Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

EU’s Struggle with Hungary

The EU has been critical of Orban’s ties with Putin and Hungary’s nationalist policies. Efforts to freeze EU funds for Hungary have been challenging, with no concrete action taken to rein in Orban’s influence.

Despite growing concerns, the EU’s options remain limited, with potential repercussions on Hungary’s voting rights under Article 7. Orban’s controversial actions have sparked debates within the EU over how to address Hungary’s rule of law issues.

While Hungary’s presidency continues to raise eyebrows in Brussels, the EU’s response remains a delicate balancing act between addressing Orban’s provocations and maintaining diplomatic relations.