A bipartisan bill introduced in the US Senate urges action against Viktor Orbán over Hungary’s stance on Ukraine and continued reliance on Russian energy.
The proposed legislation, entitled the “Block Putin Act”, calls on the administration of Donald Trump to impose measures on allies that obstruct support for Ukraine.
The co-sponsors, Democrat Jeanne Shaheen and Republican Thom Tillis, criticised Hungary for paying large sums to Russia for oil and gas, arguing that this indirectly supports Moscow’s war effort.
Under the proposal, senior Hungarian officials could face visa restrictions if they block or delay Ukraine-related aid co-ordinated by the US, EU, or NATO. Penalties could also be triggered by continued purchases of Russian
energy.
The bill states that Hungary could avoid penalties by presenting a credible plan to reduce dependence on Russian energy and by refraining from obstructing Ukraine aid for at
least 180 days.
Orbán has been blocking a €90 billion EU loan package for Ukraine in the European Council, alongside Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. The bill would also require US authorities to report on any exemptions granted to Hun-
gary from sanctions.