European Commission Demands Answers After Szijjártó Admits Secret EU Meetings with Lavrov.

Hungary's Ties with Russia Under Scrutiny

According to TSN.ua: Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has acknowledged holding regular discussions with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, during closed-door sessions of the European Union. This admission contradicts earlier denials from Hungarian officials. On March 23, the European Commission formally requested an explanation from Hungary regarding these undisclosed contacts.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Szijjártó has made 16 trips to the Russian Federation. His most recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin occurred on March 4. The ongoing communication between the Hungarian and Russian ministers has raised concerns, as it highlights inconsistencies in Hungary's stated position on the war in Ukraine.

Openness to Dialogue

Péter Szijjártó: 'Yes, these issues need to be discussed with our partners outside the European Union.'

Szijjártó further remarked, 'Every minister brings their phone into the room, except me. Suggestions about the existence of some security protocols are nonsense.' These comments underscore his willingness to engage with Russia, even if it draws criticism from other EU member states.

The situation in Hungary is becoming increasingly tense as the country approaches elections scheduled for April 12. The electoral process could reshape Hungary's foreign policy, particularly its stance toward Russia and other EU nations. Clearly, Szijjártó's interactions with Lavrov remain a focal point both within Hungary and beyond its borders.

This episode highlights the complexities of Hungary's foreign policy, which may serve as a decisive factor in its relationships with other EU countries, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine. Amid growing criticism from European partners, the Hungarian government's actions could become a key topic at upcoming EU meetings, potentially impacting the stability of the country's political direction in the near future.