Hungary’s energy security faces a significant challenge as the country seeks an exemption from new U.S. sanctions targeting nations that purchase Russian oil and gas. This development could have serious implications for Hungary, which is heavily reliant on Russian energy imports to meet its needs.
The U.S. recently enacted the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, signed by President Donald Trump on September 18. The legislation empowers the U.S. administration to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and natural gas, with certain conditions and exceptions. Hungary, which annually imports about 5 million tonnes of Russian crude oil and 4.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas, is particularly vulnerable to these measures.
In response, Hungary’s TISZA party, represented by Márton Hajdú, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, is actively seeking an exemption from these sanctions. Hajdú has engaged in discussions with Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives, aiming to secure U.S. support for Hungary’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on Russian energy.
The TISZA party’s initiative underscores the potential strain on Hungary-U.S. relations as the new sanctions come into effect. The outcome of Hungary’s request could significantly influence the dynamics between the two nations, especially as Washington decides which countries will face additional tariffs under the new legislation.