Trump Rejects Orbán's Request for Exemption from US Sanctions on Russian Oil

Trump Denies Hungarian Sanctions Exemption

US President Donald Trump has reportedly rejected a request from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for an exemption from newly announced American sanctions targeting Russian oil. Orbán had publicly stated his intention to seek the waiver during an upcoming meeting with Trump, citing Hungary's critical dependence on Russian energy supplies. However, President Trump confirmed on October 31, 2025, that the request was denied, stating, 'He asked for an exemption, but we didn't grant it—not a single one. He's my friend, yes, but he asked for an exemption.' Orbán was scheduled to meet with Trump on November 7 to discuss the issue, among other bilateral relations.

Hungary's Reliance on Russian Oil

Hungary, a landlocked country, has long maintained that its energy security is inextricably linked to Russian oil imports, primarily delivered via the Druzhba pipeline. Prime Minister Orbán has repeatedly argued that there are no viable alternatives to Russian crude, which currently accounts for approximately four-fifths of Hungary's crude oil needs. Data indicates that Hungary's reliance on Russian oil has increased from 61 percent before the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine to 86 percent. Orbán has warned that replacing these supplies would trigger an economic collapse for the nation.

New US Sanctions and Their Implications

The new US sanctions, unveiled by the Trump administration last week, specifically target major Russian state-affiliated oil firms Rosneft and Lukoil. These measures are designed to pressure Moscow into agreeing to a ceasefire in Ukraine and are expected to take effect in late November. The sanctions prohibit transactions using the US dollar, significantly complicating international settlements for these Russian energy giants and potentially exposing foreign buyers, including those in Central Europe, to secondary sanctions. Hungarian oil and gas group MOL, along with its Slovak subsidiary Slovnaft, which operate refineries heavily reliant on Russian crude, are currently assessing the potential impact of these restrictions.

Alternative Perspectives and Hungary's Stance

Despite Hungary's claims of indispensable reliance, critics and energy experts suggest that the country does have alternative options, such as increasing capacity through the Adria pipeline via Croatia. Some analysts view Hungary's continued dependence on Russian energy as a political choice rather than a necessity. In response to the looming sanctions, the Hungarian government has published draft amendments to its law on stockpiling crude oil and petroleum products, aiming to establish standby fuel stations for critical services during potential supply crises. Prime Minister Orbán has also indicated that his government is actively exploring ways to 'circumvent' the American sanctions.