The Global Story Viktor Orban’s dilemma: Trump’s favour or Russian oil
Nov 7, 2025
In this discussion, Nick Thorpe, a veteran BBC correspondent with decades of experience in Central Europe, dives deep into Viktor Orban's complex relationship with Donald Trump. The talk highlights Orban's struggle between maintaining ties with Russia for energy needs and appeasing the U.S. as sanctions loom. Thorpe explores how Orban's nationalist rhetoric has resonated with American conservatives and what a potential electoral defeat might mean for the geopolitical landscape. Tensions rise as this political chess match unfolds ahead of Orban's upcoming election.
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Sanctions Versus Energy Dependence
- Donald Trump plans to punish countries still buying Russian oil to squeeze Putin's war chest.
- That policy directly conflicts with Viktor Orban's dependence on cheap Russian energy for Hungary.
Orban Came Knocking For Advice
- Nick Thorpe recalled Viktor Orban ringing him early in his career to discuss launching his political plans over tea.
- Thorpe used that personal story to illustrate Orban's long rise from obscure activist to dominant leader.
Seek A Practical Exemption
- Convince the US to exempt Hungary or delay sanctions by stressing Hungary's landlocked pipelines and election timing.
- Emphasize domestic economic pain and electoral risk to make a persuasive case to Washington.