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Russian Gas to Hungary Hits Record High Amid EU Energy Battle

Hungary is receiving record amounts of Russian natural gas despite EU efforts to phase out energy dependence on Russia. Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto confirmed deliveries have surpassed 6 billion cubic meters this year, calling them critical for energy security. Meanwhile, Hungary and Slovakia have expressed strong reservations about the EU's plan to end Russian imports by 2027. As this energy debate continues, Norway has announced significant funding for NATO-coordinated military assistance to Ukraine.

Key Points: Hungary Reports Record Russian Gas Deliveries Despite EU Plan

  • Russian gas deliveries to Hungary exceed 6 billion cubic meters this year
  • Hungary opposes shutting down reliable Russian supply lines despite EU phase-out
  • EU plans to end Russian energy imports by 2027 faces member resistance
  • Norway commits $198 million to NATO-coordinated Ukraine military aid package
2 min read

Russian gas deliveries to Budapest hit new record: Hungarian FM

Hungary receives record 6 billion cubic meters of Russian gas as Budapest opposes EU phase-out plan, citing energy security concerns amid Ukraine aid efforts.

"critical for Hungary's energy security - Peter Szijjarto"

Budapest, Oct 16

Russian natural gas deliveries to Hungary have reached a new record this year, exceeding 6 billion cubic metres so far, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said in a post on Facebook.

He said the volume amounts to more than 21 million cubic meters per day and is "critical for Hungary's energy security."

Szijjarto reiterated that while Hungary supports energy diversification through multiple sources and routes, it opposes shutting down "well-functioning and reliable supply lines."

The European Union is pushing ahead with a strategy to phase out its dependence on Russian energy. In June, the European Commission adopted a legislative proposal to gradually end imports of Russian gas and oil by the end of 2027, reports Xinhua news agency.

Hungary and Slovakia have expressed strong reservations about the plan, warning that rapid cuts could endanger their energy security and economic stability.

Meanwhile, on the other hand, Norway aims to provide 2 billion Norwegian kroner (198 million US dollars) to a NATO-coordinated aid package for Ukraine, the Norwegian government has announced.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said the Nordic country is joining a group of European countries to fund a package that will secure defence equipment for Ukraine, reports Xinhua news agency.

Several European countries are coordinating contributions under the new US-led initiative -- Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) -- a program through which NATO allies fund military assistance for Ukraine drawn directly from the US weapon stockpiles.

Norway has previously contributed 1.5 billion Norwegian kroner to an earlier PURL package.

The PURL initiative was officially launched on July 14 by US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. (1 Norwegian krone = 0.099 US dollar)

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
While Hungary's position is understandable, I wish they'd show more solidarity with Ukraine. The contrast between their Russian gas deals and Norway's military aid to Ukraine is quite stark. Every country has to balance national interests with global responsibilities.
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Arjun K
Energy security is paramount for any nation's stability. Hungary is right to protect its interests. In India, we've maintained similar pragmatic approaches - sometimes you have to work with available partners rather than ideal ones. 🇮🇳
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Sarah B
The EU's 2027 deadline seems ambitious. Transitioning energy sources takes time and infrastructure. Hungary and Slovakia's concerns about economic stability are valid - sudden changes could hurt ordinary citizens the most.
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Vikram M
This shows how complex international relations have become. Countries are walking a tightrope between energy needs, economic stability, and geopolitical alignments. India faces similar challenges in balancing multiple partnerships. 🕊️
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Michael C
Norway's contribution to Ukraine's defense while Hungary increases Russian gas imports shows the divided European response. Every nation is calculating costs and benefits differently. The energy crisis is creating strange bedfellows across the globe.

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