Hungary has stopped delaying the renewal of European sanctions on Moscow, which may have detrimental consequences on its relationship with Russia.

Before reupping the sanctions, Budapest wanted to wait for Trump's inauguration, then insisted Brussels push Ukraine to reopen a gas pipeline running to Central Europe.

BRUSSELS – Hungary removed its veto on the EU's six-month extension of Russia sanctions on Monday, but it may not be its last standoff. The deal was struck after the EU agreed to issue a joint, non-binding statement by top diplomat Kaja Kallas and the European Commission to support Hungary's energy security at Monday's meeting of foreign ministers.

BRUSSELS - European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said she expected the bloc to renew its sanctions on Russia on Monday after Hungary signalled it would stop holding up the move in return for assurances about energy security.

The EU Council extended sanctions against Russia on Monday after Hungary refrained from exercising a potential veto. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó stated that the gov't received the guarantees it sought concerning energy security.

Before relenting, Budapest had threatened to allow billions of dollars to flow back to the Kremlin in a row over energy imports.

European Union ambassadors are meeting in Brussels to address a Hungarian block on extending sanctions on Russia. Hungary's agreement is crucial for passing a statement on energy security and ensuring the continuation of sanctions.

The fate of the European Union’s sanctions against Russia were thrown into limbo after a top Hungarian official called for a “debate” and signaled their renewal by the end of the month shouldn’t be automatic.

Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s leading low-cost airline, has announced the launch of three new routes for summer 2025. Building on the recently unveiled Kuwait-to-Budapest route, the airline will commence direct flights to Sochi, Russia, and Hurghada, Egypt in the coming summer season.

Hungarians risk jeopardizing a special relationship with the US if they vote out Prime Minister Viktor Orban in elections next year, said US President Donald Trump’s former envoy to Budapest.Most Read

Officials in Brussels are considering returning to purchasing Russian gas through the EU, "Financial Times" reports, citing people familiar with EU negotiations. This would be part of a potential agreement that could end Russia's war against Ukraine.