US Lifts Sanctions on Hungary's Antal Rogan Amid Diplomatic Shift

The U.S. State Department has lifted sanctions on Antal Rogan, a senior aide to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, citing the designation as inconsistent with U.S. foreign policy interests. This decision, communicated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, reflects a significant shift in U.S.-Hungary relations, particularly under the influence of the Trump administration. Rogan had been sanctioned by the Biden administration in January over allegations of corruption, which included claims of enriching himself and allies through misuse of public office. The removal of sanctions comes as both nations seek to strengthen bilateral cooperation and address economic opportunities, amid ongoing tensions regarding Hungary's ties with Russia. Szijjarto characterized the previous sanctions as politically motivated, asserting that they were a reaction to the Biden administration's electoral struggles. The shift indicates a potential realignment of U.S. diplomatic strategy in Eastern Europe, specifically concerning Hungary's controversial governance.