Budapest plans full phase-out of Russian gas by autumn 2027

Hungary has committed to ceasing the use of Russian natural gas by autumn 2027. This was stated by the country's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Anita Orbán, who emphasised that this deadline is a clear requirement of the European Union.

Search for alternative energy sources

In parallel with gas, Budapest is seeking other sources of oil. According to Orbán, Hungarian energy company MOL is preparing its refineries to process non-Russian raw materials. This oil is to arrive from the south via the Croatian JANAF oil pipeline.

It is worth noting that the US has temporarily exempted Hungary from sanctions on the purchase of oil from Russian companies Lukoil and Rosneft. However, this exception is valid only until 21 November. Therefore, as the minister explained, MOL is already implementing changes to its technological processes to enable it to purchase oil from other suppliers.

Negotiations regarding Serbia's NIS

Another important aspect is the potential purchase by MOL of Gazprom's stake in the Serbian oil company NIS, which owns Serbia's only refinery. The US Treasury Department has authorised these negotiations until 11 December.

Orbán did not comment on the details of these discussions but noted that, in her opinion, all interested parties are keen to conclude the deal on time.

Cooperation with the US and strategic interests

The minister also spoke about her visit to Washington, where she and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed two declarations of intent. They concern cooperation in the energy sector and counter-terrorism.

In response to a question about whether the new government led by the Tisza party is continuing the policy of its predecessors, Orbán replied that some national interests remain unchanged regardless of a change in power.

“There are strategic interests that do not change with a change of government, such as the security of the country,” the minister emphasised.