Serbia, Slovakia and Poland's call for a permanent end to Russian gas flows pose issues for the Russian leader.

Hungary has stopped delaying the renewal of European sanctions on Moscow, which may have detrimental consequences on its relationship with Russia.

Milos Vucevic, the Serbian Prime Minister, has been forced to resign following widespread protests, dealing a significant blow to Vladimir Putin's support in Europe. The Serbian leader announced his departure after demonstrations erupted over a tragic incident in November 2024,

“Now the issue of extending sanctions is on the agenda, I have put on the handbrake and asked European leaders to understand that this cannot continue,” said Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, speaking to state broadcaster Kossuth Radio. “Hungary cannot be made to pay the price of sanctions in such proportions.”

Viktor Orban’s government would be ‘playing with fire’ by blocking renewal of sanctions on Russia, diplomat says

The extension of EU sanctions shouldn't be automatic, the Hungarian government has said, in remarks that threaten to unravel the bloc's collective reaction to Russia's war on Ukraine #EuropeNews

The expansionism of the presidents of Russia and the United States set a dangerous example for less powerful countries that have open territorial disputes with Ukraine

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has labeled Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk as an “agent” of billionaire George Soros after Tusk warned that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban would face “consequences” if he blocks the renewal of EU sanctions on Russia.

Putin is attempting to use the prospect of negotiations to buy time and gain an upper hand in the war in Ukraine, even as he slyly appeals to President Trump’s ego. Trump must not let

Nevertheless, Putin’s New Year’s message remained upbeat. He looked ahead to the upcoming 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Germany in World War II, assuring the nation of its strength.

Sikorski believes that Budapest changed its mind after Trump called Russian dictator Vladimir Putin as an aggressor and threatened Moscow with sanctions if it did not engage in peace talks. It was the new US president's first clear position on Russia's war against Ukraine.