Hungary will not support EU sanctions against the russian energy sector and is against the no-fly zone over Ukraine on the peacekeeping mission proposed by Poland. These statements were made by the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Peter Siatro backstage of the meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers in Brussels, reported Hungarian news outlet Portfolio. Siarto said that Hungary would not agree to impose sanctions that would limit or stop energy transfers from russia.
"We won't support sanctions that would endanger Hungarian energy supplies. We've entered a new phase of war risks and will have to act more deliberately to secure our interests, that is, peace and security of Hungary," said the Minister.
According to Siarto, switching to alternative oil and natural gas sources can take two to three years. Besides, the country will have to find where and how to secure the resources.
Speaking about the no-fly zone, Siarto said that such actions "will lead to war in the air."
"Putting in place a peacekeeping mission, that's been proposed, brings a risk of a ground war. We have to speak openly about these issues, these new military risks," said the Minister, adding that the Hungarian government has made its position clear, Hungary wants to stay outside of the war.
The Minister said that Hungary would not block arms supplies to Ukraine from other EU member-states. He also stated that Hungary will not supply weapons and will not facilitate the transit of weapons through its territory.
The Prime Minister of Hungary, Victor Orban, had consistently expressed the same position. According to his words, NATO and EU summits on the russian invasion will be difficult, as "NATO has dangerous offers on the table."