The Kremlin expressed optimism regarding continued pragmatic cooperation with Hungary’s new leadership following recent elections, anticipating mutual benefits for both Moscow and Budapest.
Kremlin Anticipates Continued Cooperation with Hungary
Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, stated they are eagerly awaiting continued pragmatic cooperation with Hungary’s new leadership and acknowledged Peter Magyar’s stated willingness to engage in dialogue.
Peskov added that such cooperation would be beneficial for both Moscow and Budapest, while acknowledging a need for patience regarding the actions of the new Hungarian authorities.
Regarding potential unblocking of EU funds for Ukraine, Peskov reiterated Russia’s interest in building good relations with Hungary, as with all European countries, and dismissed the election results as having no impact on the war in Ukraine.
Magyar Signals Potential for Dialogue, But No Immediate Friendship
Peskov’s comments on dialogue likely referenced statements made by Peter Magyar in an interview with the Hungarian newspaper “Nepszava,” where he indicated a willingness to negotiate with the Russian President if necessary.
Magyar emphasized that the geographical positions of Russia and Hungary are unchanged, and their energy dependence will remain for the foreseeable future, stressing the need for diversification, but not overnight. He stated negotiations are possible, but a close friendship is unlikely.
Russian Envoy Predicts EU Collapse
Kirill Dmitriev, an unofficial envoy for Vladimir Putin in discussions with the Washington administration, stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the Hungarian election results “will only accelerate the collapse of the EU,” responding to a post by British activist Tommy Robinson.
Dmitriev, who serves as the Director General of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), a state-owned fund with at least $10 billion in assets, urged observers to “check back in four months” to see if his prediction holds true.
Lukashenko Congratulates Magyar, Calls for Continued Cooperation
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko also commented on Tiszá’s victory, expressing confidence that the traditions of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between Minsk and Budapest should continue.
Lukashenko wished Peter Magyar health and success.
Election Results Give TISZA Majority
Based on nearly 99% of the votes counted, Peter Magyar’s TISZA party 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 will enter parliament with six seats.
TISZA’s majority allows it to amend the constitution and laws enacted during Orbán’s 16 years in power.
Orbán’s Policies and Relations with Russia
Viktor Orbán, who has been in power since 2010, previously delayed and sometimes opposed EU sanctions against Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and blocked a €90 billion loan for Ukraine.
Orbán accused Kyiv of sabotaging Russian oil deliveries to Hungary, a claim Ukraine denies, and Hungary continues to purchase Russian oil and gas. Russia is also involved in the expansion of Hungary’s nuclear power plant.
