The European Commission is set to present a significant piece of legislation on April 15 that seeks to impose a permanent ban on the import of Russian oil. This proposal aligns with prior sanctions already implemented for maritime imports of Russian oil, but aims to extend the prohibition further. According to European officials, the timing has been carefully chosen to ensure that the ban does not interfere with the electoral process in Hungary, taking place just three days prior.

Hungary and Slovakia are both heavily dependent on Russian oil, and both countries have expressed strong opposition to any such ban. The looming proposal presents a considerable challenge to Hungary, especially as Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces his most significant political test in 16 years against the backdrop of these elections. The opposition to the ban may become a pivotal point in Orban's campaign as he attempts to maintain his grip on power amidst economic pressures and external political influences.

The implications of this proposed ban could be far-reaching, impacting not only Hungary and Slovakia's domestic energy strategies but also reshaping the European Union's approach to energy security in response to geopolitical tensions. As the EU pushes for further sanctions against Russia, it must navigate the delicate balance of solidarity among member states while addressing the economic realities faced by nations reliant on Russian oil.