The Kremlin expressed hope for continued pragmatic cooperation with Hungary’s new leadership following Peter Magyar’s election victory, while downplaying implications for Ukraine aid.
Kremlin’s Response and Dialogue with New Hungarian Government
Moscow anticipates continued pragmatic cooperation with the new Hungarian leadership, noting Peter Magyar’s stated willingness for dialogue. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that such dialogue would benefit both Moscow and Budapest.
Peskov acknowledged the need for patience regarding the actions of the new Hungarian authorities, emphasizing a continued interest in building good relations with Hungary, as with all European countries.
Magyar’s Stance on Relations with Russia
Peter Magyar indicated a willingness to engage in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin if necessary, while acknowledging the enduring geographical and energy dependencies between Russia and Hungary. He stressed the need for energy diversification but cautioned it wouldn’t happen overnight.
Magyar stated that negotiations with Russia may be required, but did not foresee a friendly relationship developing.
Russian Envoy Predicts EU Collapse
Kirill Dmitriev, an unofficial envoy for Vladimir Putin, commented on the Hungarian election results via X, stating they would “only accelerate the collapse of the EU.” He challenged observers to reassess the situation in four months.
Dmitriev currently serves as the Director General of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), a state-owned fund with at least $10 billion in assets.
Reactions from Belarus and Amnesty International
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko congratulated Peter Magyar on his victory and expressed hope for the continuation of traditional friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation between Minsk and Budapest.
Dávid Vig, Director of Amnesty International Hungary, noted that reversing the changes made by Viktor Orbán’s government during his 16 years in power will be a significant challenge, even with a constitutional majority.
Election Results and Orbán’s Legacy
Preliminary results indicate that TISZA, led by Peter Magyar, secured 138 seats in the 199-seat Hungarian parliament. The FIDESZ-KDNP coalition, led by outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, received 55 seats, while the far-right Mi Hazánk party won six seats.
Orbán, in power since 2010, previously delayed and opposed EU sanctions against Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and blocked a €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Hungary continues to purchase Russian oil and gas, and Russia is involved in the expansion of Hungary’s nuclear power plant.