Hungary’s foreign affairs leadership has reiterated a firm stance on the sourcing of fuel for the Paks nuclear power complex. In an interview broadcast by ATV, the foreign minister conveyed that Budapest does not plan to swap Russian fuel suppliers for the Paks-1 unit with alternative foreign partners. The message is clear: the current contract with Russia ensures a steady stream of fuel, and there is little justification, at present, to pursue a different supplier.
When pressed about the potential involvement of Westinghouse, the American energy company, in supplying fuel for Paks-1, the minister underscored that no official proposals had been received to replace the current supplier. He also emphasized a willingness to listen to all credible offers, even as he cautioned that such offers would likely remain inconsequential without a corresponding shift in contract terms. The tone was pragmatic and cautious, signaling that any change to the fuel supply architecture would require robust contractual grounds and strategic justification.
The minister also addressed the status of Paks-2, noting that discussions should not revolve around fuel arrangements at this stage. Construction of the second unit is the priority right now, and a fuel supply contract would only come into play after the plant is brought up to speed. The official indicated that a potential earlier timeline for Paks II exists, but the development path would depend on securing a reliable construction framework before fuel agreements are even contemplated.
In reiterating Hungary’s approach, the minister highlighted the practical constraint of meeting the nation’s energy needs while maintaining diversified fuel imports. He stressed that, given the current energy mix and contractual commitments, Russian natural gas remains a critical element of Hungary’s energy security. The remarks underscored a cautious stance toward rapid shifts in supplier arrangements, preferring stability and predictability as the Paks project progresses.
Observers note that the discussion reflects broader debates across Europe about nuclear fuel sourcing, energy sovereignty, and the balance between national policy and foreign supplier dependencies. For Hungary, the priority is to ensure uninterrupted operations for Paks-1, maintain the integrity of existing agreements, and pursue a careful, evidence-based evaluation of any future supplier options only when real needs and reliable offers present themselves. The government continues to monitor developments in the global energy landscape, aiming to align Hungary’s nuclear ambitions with its long-term energy strategy and market realities.