• Hungarian PM Viktor Orban meets Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss energy supplies and Ukraine peace efforts.
• Orban pledges to maintain Hungary's reliance on Russian energy amidst EU pressures.
• Putin and Orban express intentions for a potential peace summit in Budapest.
• US provides Hungary a temporary exemption from sanctions on Russian oil and gas.
• Future cooperation on nuclear energy and gas supplies is confirmed between Hungary and Russia.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, focusing on securing Hungary's energy supplies for the upcoming winter and next year. Orban's visit comes as Hungary continues to navigate its relationships with both Russia and the European Union amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. “I am going…to ensure that Hungary's energy supply is secured for the winter and the following year at an affordable price,” stated Orban, highlighting his effort to maintain Hungary's reliance on Russian resources despite EU sanctions pressuring member states to reduce dependency on Russian energy supplies, according to Reuters and Le Monde.

During the meeting, Putin expressed appreciation for Orban's stance on Ukraine, stating, "We are aware of your balanced position on the situation in Ukraine," which has frustrated EU allies. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto further emphasized Hungary's sovereign approach to foreign policy, asserting that their cooperation with Russia is rooted in "mutual respect and realities." The talks also included discussions on accelerating the construction of the Paks nuclear power plant and reaffirmed that Russia would fulfill its obligations regarding gas and oil deliveries to Hungary, as reported by AA and BBC.

Orban also reiterated his support for a peace summit in Budapest involving the United States and Russia, stating Hungary is willing to assist in facilitating peace talks while dismissing accusations of defying EU policies. This comes after he visited Washington, securing an exemption from sanctions on Russian oil and gas under President Donald Trump, which formalizes Hungary's continued reliance on Russian energy supplies. Analysts view this as part of Orban’s diplomatic strategy to bolster his political standing domestically ahead of upcoming elections, according to AA and AA.

While Orban maintains a close relationship with Moscow, his administration is also navigating complex negotiations over European energy policies, evidenced by his critique of Brussels' stance on Ukraine funding. The Hungarian leader's actions reflect a contentious balance between national and EU interests, as he continues to pursue a foreign policy that prioritizes Hungary's immediate needs, particularly energy security amidst geopolitical turbulence, as suggested by reports from Le Monde and AA.