The European Commission intends to propose a permanent ban on Russian oil imports shortly after Hungary's parliamentary elections to avoid influencing the electoral campaign.
The European Commission is preparing a legal proposal for a permanent ban on importing Russian oil, with plans to submit it on April 15, 2022, three days after Hungary's parliamentary election. This timing is strategically chosen to prevent the oil ban from becoming a contentious issue in the campaign leading up to the election. The political landscape in Hungary is particularly significant as Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his Fidesz party are facing their toughest challenge in 16 years, making the election a crucial moment for their continued governance.
Hungary, along with Slovakia, has been resistant to the EU's move towards a full ban due to its heavy reliance on Russian oil imports. The European Commission, having already placed sanctions on seaborne Russian oil imports, aims to establish a structured legislative approach that would facilitate the complete phase-out of Russian oil. This proposal is part of a broader strategy to ensure that sanctions remain in place, even in the event of a peace agreement regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine.
