Viktor Orbán and Vladimir Putin (collage: RBC-Ukraine)© RBC-Ukraine (UK)

The European Union and the United States are stepping up efforts to remove Russian energy from Europe, putting increasing pressure on Hungary and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. At the centre of the dispute is the Druzhba pipeline, one of the last remaining routes supplying Russian oil to parts of the continent.

The European Commission is expected to present a legal proposal on April 15 to permanently ban Russian oil imports through the Druzhba pipeline. The move is part of the EU’s long-term strategy to eliminate Russian fossil fuel imports entirely by 2027 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Brussels may bypass opposition from Hungary and Slovakia by using the EU’s REPowerEU regulation. Unlike sanctions packages that require unanimous approval, this mechanism allows decisions to pass with a qualified majority vote among member states.

Hungary has been one of the EU countries most reliant on Russian energy. Its oil and gas sector is dominated by MOL Group, which has historically benefited from Russian crude priced 15–20% lower than alternative supplies. Analysts say the company’s profits increased significantly as it resold cheaper Russian oil at market rates across Central Europe.

At the same time, the United States is increasing pressure on Budapest to reduce dependence on Russian gas. Hungary has already begun partial diversification after state-owned energy firm MVM CEEnergy signed a five-year LNG supply deal with Chevron. The agreement provides about 400 million cubic meters of liquefied natural gas annually, though that accounts for only around 10% of Hungary’s total consumption.

Energy politics may also be influenced by Hungary’s upcoming elections. Orbán faces a growing challenge from opposition leader Péter Magyar, whose team supports rapid diversification away from Russian oil and gas.

Experts say the outcome of both the election and the EU’s policy push could reshape central Europe’s energy landscape. Regardless of the political result, the combined actions of Brussels and Washington suggest Russian energy exports will play a much smaller role in Europe’s future.

Key Takeaways

• The EU plans to ban Russian oil imports through the Druzhba pipeline, targeting full energy independence by 2027.

• Brussels may bypass Hungary’s veto using the REPowerEU regulation and a qualified majority vote.

• Hungary is slowly diversifying energy supplies, including a new LNG deal with Chevron, amid U.S. pressure.

Original Source:
https://www.rbc.ua/ukr/news/druzhba-pipeline-countdown-us-eu-pressure-orban-energy-power-2026.html

More bird slicers coming, just great. Germanys woke virtue signalling closure of its nuclear power stations was an incredible act of self harm. Total muppetshow over in Europe.