After last week’s big jump, crude oil prices have come down close to their pre-Iran attack levels after the conflict in the Middle East between Iran, Israel, and the United States started to cool down. In response, the major US stock index also rose.
Hungary and Slovakia have blocked the EU’s latest sanctions package, opposing plans to ban Russian oil and gas imports. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó warned the move would devastate Hungary’s energy security and lead to soaring household costs.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has pledged to take decisive action to safeguard Hungary’s peace and security in response to the US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, citing the growing terror threat, rising energy prices, and increasing migratory pressure facing Europe.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán called on Hungarians to cast their vote in the Voks 2025 consultation on Ukraine’s EU membership, warning that rapid accession could endanger Hungary’s sovereignty, economy, and social protections.
‘Can Western nations hope to resurrect Western hegemony while remaining so dysfunctional domestically? Deeper still: are some of these domestic dysfunctions a direct result of their role in maintaining a liberal empire in its late stages? Viewed this way, the emerging multipolar world might…also present opportunities for cultural and political revitalization in the West.’
‘Overall, these meetings influence policies that can lead to more coherent and effective global economic cooperation. However, in light of the tensions listed above, it is unlikely that this was one of those meetings where significant policies were adopted.’
‘As a historian, much of Karol Nawrocki’s career—especially as President of the Institute of National Remembrance—was dedicated to studying the crimes committed against Poles during World War II. During his campaign and since, President Nawrocki emphasized multiple times that Ukraine must make concessions with regards to its memory politics.’
Hungary is demanding the EU suspend its plan to ban Russian energy imports in light of the Middle East war, warning that further supply shocks could cripple the European economy. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán urged Brussels to reassess the risks.
‘Operation Spiderweb has a more profound impact than simply enabling the Ukrainians to secure a decisive military victory over Russia; it sets a new precedent for warfare. Cheap $400 drones can be used to surgically strike enemy targets while either minimizing or preventing collateral damage. This leads to startling possibilities, both good and bad.’
Hungary’s National Assembly passed a law allowing the suspension of citizenship for dual nationals deemed threats to public or national security. Non-EEA citizens serving foreign powers or convicted of serious crimes may be targeted. A designated minister will oversee cases.