Hungary’s nuclear energy ambitions are once again at the center of European controversy. The construction of the Paks II nuclear power plant, a project carried out with the participation of the Russian state corporation Rosatom, has raised concerns among Hungary’s European partners. The Paks II project, which includes the construction of VVER-1200 reactors, is scheduled to see its first concrete poured in early 2025. However, the lack of transparency, corruption risks, and geopolitical consequences make it a serious threat to European unity.
Why Does Paks II Threaten EU Unity?
1. Increased Energy Dependence on Russia
Despite Viktor Orbán’s claims about the need for energy independence, Paks II strengthens Moscow’s position in Central and Eastern Europe. The European Union has been actively working to reduce dependence on Russian energy sources. However, Hungary’s decision to continue collaborating with Rosatom contradicts this strategy, further deepening its reliance on Russia.
2. Moscow’s Expanding Influence in Europe
The Paks II project serves as another geopolitical tool for the Kremlin to expand its presence in Europe. By securing long-term energy ties, Russia can exert political leverage over Hungary and other EU nations. This aligns with Moscow’s broader strategy of maintaining influence over key European countries, challenging the EU’s stability.
3. Corruption Risks and Lack of Transparency
Numerous corruption allegations surround Paks II. Rosatom was granted the contract without a competitive tender process, and key documents related to the deal have been classified for 30 years. This lack of transparency has raised concerns within the European Commission, which faced resistance from Budapest when attempting to investigate potential violations in the contract process.
Political Context: Orbán, Pintér, and Russian Influence
Investigations reveal that Hungary’s Interior Minister, Sándor Pintér, has played a crucial role in securing Russian energy deals. Reports from Direkt36.hu suggest that Pintér received financial backing from Moscow for the Fidesz party as early as 1994. Following Viktor Orbán’s 1998 election victory, his administration further strengthened ties with Russia, particularly in strategic energy sectors.
Media Control and Conflict with the EU
Orbán’s policies have put Hungary on a collision course with the European Union regarding rule of law, judicial independence, and press freedom. The Hungarian government has taken control of major media outlets, restricting journalistic independence. Inspired by Russia’s “foreign agents” law, Hungary has introduced legislative measures targeting independent media, further eroding democratic standards.
Recent investigations suggest that Hungarian intelligence services conducted surveillance on European officials. A Budapest hotel, linked to Orbán’s son-in-law István Tiborcz, may have been used to eavesdrop on EU leaders during a 2024 summit. These revelations highlight growing concerns about Hungary’s alignment with Russian intelligence operations.
Consequences for Europe
The Paks II project represents more than an economic or energy issue—it is a direct challenge to European security and democratic values. If the EU fails to address these corruption risks and geopolitical threats, internal divisions will widen, ultimately playing into the hands of the Kremlin. Europe must take decisive action to counteract Russian influence and uphold the principles of transparency and sovereignty within the bloc.
