Minister Gulyás said the cabinet spent the longest portion of its most recent meeting reviewing the situation created by the extreme cold, noting that Hungary has not experienced such low temperatures in 15 years. He thanked police officers, members of the Hungarian Defense Forces, Disaster Management personnel, and Prison Service staff for maintaining the country’s operability during the severe winter conditions.
According to the minister, increased heating demand would normally result in higher utility bills, which the government considers unacceptable under the current circumstances. “Our goal is that no one should have to pay higher heating bills,” Minister Gulyás emphasized.
To achieve this, the government has established a working group led by Minister of Energy Csaba Lantos, tasked with developing concrete proposals within one week. Minister Gulyás explained that the solution must account for different heating methods—including gas, electricity, and district heating—as well as various billing systems. Detailed measures will be presented next week.
Minister Gulyás also criticized left-wing parties for attacking the January utility cost freeze, arguing that recent cold weather had demonstrated the importance of maintaining regulated energy prices.
Government spokesperson Eszter Vitályos added that the cabinet has decided to assume the costs of additional gas and district heating consumption incurred by families during January. She also confirmed that the social firewood program for those in need will continue.
The government meeting addressed international issues as well. Minister Gulyás announced that the cabinet had authorized Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to participate in the Board of Peace initiated by President Donald Trump. He stressed that participation in the body carries no financial obligations for Hungary.
The minister said the government remains opposed to any financing for either the war in Ukraine or the operation of the Ukrainian state. He noted that the European Union has already sent €193 billion to Ukraine, with a decision pending on an additional €93 billion, while Ukraine is also seeking a further $800 billion over the next decade.
In this context, the minister announced the launch of a national petition in early February, urging citizens to support the government’s position.