The Kremlin stated it will not congratulate Peter Magyar on his election victory, deeming Hungary an “unfriendly country” due to its past support for anti-Russian sanctions.
Kremlin Declares Hungary “Unfriendly”
A Kremlin spokesperson on Monday, April 13th, emphasized that Russia will not congratulate Peter Magyar, as Hungary has been formally recognized by Moscow as an “unfriendly country.” This designation stems from Hungary’s previous support for anti-Russian sanctions.
Kirill Dmitriev, an unofficial envoy for Vladimir Putin in discussions with the Washington administration, also commented on the Hungarian elections, stating, “This will only accelerate the collapse of the EU.” He added, “Check if I’m right in four months.”
Magyar Open to Pragmatic Cooperation, But No Immediate Contact with Putin
Pieskov stated that Hungary “made a choice and (Russia) respects that choice,” expressing anticipation for continued “highly pragmatic cooperation” with the new Hungarian leadership. He noted Magyar’s stated willingness to engage in dialogue, which he believes would benefit both Moscow and Budapest.
Pieskov added, “We were never friends with Orbán.” Magyar has declared Hungary’s readiness for pragmatic cooperation with Russia, emphasizing that “geography is geography.” However, he stated he will not initiate personal contact with Russian leadership and will not call Putin first. “If Vladimir Putin calls, I will answer the phone. If we were to talk, I would tell him that it would be good to end the killing after four years and end the war,” Magyar said.
Hungarian Diplomacy and Energy Ties with Russia
The head of Hungarian diplomacy reportedly relayed information to Moscow regarding discussions held within the EU framework.
Viktor Orbán, in power in Hungary since 2010, has delayed and sometimes opposed EU sanctions imposed on Russia in connection with the attack on Ukraine. He also blocked a €90 billion loan for Ukraine.
Orbán accused Kyiv of sabotaging Russian oil supplies to Hungary, a claim Ukraine denies. Hungary continues to purchase oil and gas from Russia, and Russia is involved in the expansion of a nuclear power plant in Hungary.
Leaked Conversations Reveal Hungarian Minister’s Coordination with Moscow
Prior to the elections, conversations between Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov were published, revealing that the Hungarian minister coordinated actions regarding sanctions with Moscow and reported on the progress of discussions within the EU, according to the “Washington Post” and local investigative portals.
