Latest news in Hungary - 5 Mar 2025

Hungary Pushes for Removal of Antal Rogán from Sanctions List: Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced a positive outlook on negotiations with the U.S. regarding the lifting of sanctions, particularly those affecting Antal Rogán, head of the Prime Minister’s Office. Discussions included enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation, suggesting a potential shift in U.S. stance towards Hungary. Read more here

Oil Transportation Halted to Czech Republic: The flow of oil through the Friendship pipeline to the Czech Republic was halted on Tuesday, with officials assuring that state reserves will cover needs for 90 days. Industry Minister Lukáš Vlček confirmed that refineries are prepared for this situation and can utilize the expanded TAL-IKL line if necessary. Read more here

New Measures Against Drug Dealers Announced: László Horváth, the new government commissioner for drug trafficking eradication, proposes strict legislation including public endangerment detention for incapacitated users, complete asset confiscation from drug dealers, a reversal of the burden of proof on them, and potential community banishment. Horváth emphasized a zero-tolerance approach, declaring a "manhunt" against drug distributors. Read more here

IKEA Recalls Dangerous Outdoor Lamps: IKEA is recalling specific outdoor LED string lights and lamps due to a risk of electric shock from non-compliant plugs. Customers who bought any of the models from the LEDLJUS, SOMMARLÅNKE, STRÅLA, or SVARTRÅ families are advised to stop using them and return them for a full refund, no proof of purchase required. Read more here

Ministry Urges Retail Chains to Lower Food Prices: The Hungarian Ministry of Economic Development, led by Márton Nagy, is pushing retail chains to voluntarily reduce the prices of essential food items, such as meat, dairy, and cooking oil, within a week. This follows rising food prices, which have disproportionately affected families and pensioners, and the ministry warns of regulatory action if price reductions are not achieved. Read more here

New Kayaking Academy Inaugurated in Sukoró: The National Kayak-Canoe Academy, named after Olympic champion Katalin Kovács, has officially opened in Sukoró with an investment of 50 billion forints. The academy features top-tier facilities including a 50-meter swimming pool, a hyperbaric chamber, and various training spaces for multiple sports, aiming to boost Hungary's standing in kayaking and other athletic pursuits. Read more here

Fidesz Rejects Domestic Violence Restraining Order Proposal: The Fidesz-KDNP majority in Hungary's Parliament has voted against a proposal from the Democratic Coalition (DK) that would allow abused spouses to request immediate restraining orders. This vote also included the rejection of tighter penalties for offenders against minors, despite recent government statements on zero tolerance for violence against women. Read more here

First Memorial for War Victims Planned in Budapest: A memorial honoring the victims of the Russian-Ukrainian war may be established in the XII. district of Budapest, following a visit from Ukrainian Ambassador Sándor Fegyir. Mayor Gergely Kovács highlighted the importance of this initiative and discussed future cooperation, including free summer camps for children from Transcarpathia and Eastern Ukraine. Read more here

Gold Nanosensors Developed in Szeged: Researchers at the University of Szeged are pioneering gold nanosensors that can detect toxins and disease markers in blood and cerebrospinal fluid through color changes, akin to disco lights. These UV-sensitive sensors have promising applications, including detecting Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis indicators, and could transform diagnostic processes with their innovative design. Read more here

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