US lawmakers have introduced a bill aimed at penalising Hungarian officials who aid Russian energy purchases and hinder Western support for Ukraine. The proposed legislation, known as the Block Putin Act, seeks to impose visa restrictions on designated officials if adopted. The bill, sponsored by Democrat Jeanne Shaheen and Republican Thom Tillis, does not specify any Hungarian politicians by name. Hungary has become a focal point of tensions within the European Union over its close ties with Russia.
The country's Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, has been blocking a €90 billion aid package to Ukraine, citing Kyiv's refusal to reopen the Druzhba pipeline. This pipeline was damaged in a Russian strike in late January and has not been repaired since. Hungary's Foreign Minister, Péter Szijjártó, has faced criticism for sharing sensitive information with Russian officials. Szijjártó defended his actions, stating that he communicates with Moscow before and after EU Council sessions as a matter of routine.
The US senators have expressed concern over Hungary's increasing reliance on Russian oil and gas, as well as its refusal to assist Ukraine. Senator Tillis noted that while some European countries have reduced their dependence on Russian energy, Hungary has taken the opposite approach. Senator Shaheen also criticised the US support for Orbán ahead of Hungary's parliamentary elections on 12 April. The bill proposes lifting sanctions if the Hungarian government presents a plan to reduce its dependence on Russian energy and refrains from obstructing Ukraine assistance for at least 180 days.
The legislation follows the US sanctions imposed on Antal Rogán, a Hungarian minister and close ally of Orbán, for corruption in January 2025. The Trump administration reversed this decision after coming into power. The proposed bill is a response to these developments and aims to hold Hungarian officials accountable for their actions.
The Block Putin Act is a much-needed measure to hold accountable those who facilitate Russian energy purchases and obstruct Western support for Ukraine. The actions of Hungarian officials, particularly Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, have been a major source of tension within the European Union. The proposed legislation sends a clear message that the US will not tolerate actions that aid Russian aggression and undermine Ukrainian sovereignty. By imposing visa restrictions and potential sanctions, the US is taking a crucial step in promoting a more united and cohesive European response to the Russian invasion.
