Orbán Takes EU to Court Over Decision on Russian Gas
World
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has announced that Budapest will sue the European Union over its decision to phase out Russian natural gas, calling the measure “clearly illegal” and contrary to European values.
Hungary maintains some of the closest energy ties with Russia among EU members and consistently opposes restrictions on gas imports.
In an interview with a local radio station, cited by AFP, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said Hungary would file a case with the European Court to challenge the EU’s decision to end imports of Russian gas.
“We do not accept this clearly illegal decision that contradicts European values and was chosen by Brussels; <…> we are taking the matter to the European Court,” he stated.
In mid-October, the EU Council approved a plan to gradually phase out imports of Russian gas starting January 1, 2026. Existing long-term contracts will be granted a transition period until January 1, 2028. The measure also includes a mechanism to suspend the ban temporarily in case of supply disruptions.
Hungary’s legal action could deepen divisions within the EU over its energy policy amid ongoing debates about the pace and feasibility of reducing dependence on Russian energy.
In an interview with a local radio station, cited by AFP, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said Hungary would file a case with the European Court to challenge the EU’s decision to end imports of Russian gas.
“We do not accept this clearly illegal decision that contradicts European values and was chosen by Brussels; <…> we are taking the matter to the European Court,” he stated.
In mid-October, the EU Council approved a plan to gradually phase out imports of Russian gas starting January 1, 2026. Existing long-term contracts will be granted a transition period until January 1, 2028. The measure also includes a mechanism to suspend the ban temporarily in case of supply disruptions.
Hungary’s legal action could deepen divisions within the EU over its energy policy amid ongoing debates about the pace and feasibility of reducing dependence on Russian energy.
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