Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has called for the immediate lifting of EU sanctions on Russian energy supplies, warning that Europe faces one of its most severe economic and energy crises in history. In a sharp response to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on April 2, 2026, Orbán argued that prioritizing citizens’ welfare over geopolitical confrontation is essential.

Tusk had accused Orbán of advancing “Putin’s dream plan” by blocking EU aid and loans to Ukraine while easing pressure on Russia.

Orbán countered: “Europe is heading toward one of the most severe economic crises… The only way out is to lift the sanctions imposed on Russian energy. Immediately. We must think not about Putin, but about our own country and our peoples. Instead of warmongering, love and save your country, Donald!”

The exchange comes just ten days before Hungary’s parliamentary elections on April 12, where Orbán’s Fidesz party seeks re-election against challenger Péter Magyar’s Tisza party. Hungary has long opposed broad sanctions, citing reliance on Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline and protecting domestic fuel prices. Orbán insists national interests must come first amid global energy volatility.Critics view the stance as pro-Russian, while supporters praise it as pragmatic realism in turbulent times. The debate highlights deepening divisions within the EU over Ukraine policy and energy security.

janus