Hungary's Incoming Prime Minister Advocates for Ukraine's Territorial Integrity

Peter Magyar, the newly elected Prime Minister of Hungary, has publicly affirmed Ukraine's right to defend itself against Russian aggression and rejected any notion of ceding territory. His comments came during a press conference on April 13, following his party's victory over Viktor Orban's Fidesz party in the parliamentary elections held on April 12. This election marked a significant political shift in Hungary, as Magyar's Tisza party ended Orban's 16-year rule, which had been characterized by a pro-Russian stance.

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Magyar, a former member of Fidesz who distanced himself from the party in 2024, has pledged to combat corruption and improve Hungary's relations with the European Union. His election comes at a critical moment for Ukraine, as Orban had been blocking substantial financial support from the EU, including a €90 billion loan and sanctions against Russia. Magyar's leadership is seen as a potential pivot away from Hungary's previous alignment with Kremlin-friendly policies.

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• Peter Magyar: Incoming Prime Minister of Hungary, leader of the Tisza party, advocating for Ukraine's territorial integrity and a shift away from pro-Russian policies.

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• Viktor Orban: Former Prime Minister of Hungary, known for his close ties to Russia and opposition to EU sanctions against Moscow.

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During the press conference, Magyar emphasized that "no country has the right to tell another to give up territory after a four-year war," highlighting the need for U.S.-backed security guarantees for Ukraine. He also criticized the Budapest Memorandum of 1994, which he believes failed to provide adequate assurances to Ukraine after it relinquished its nuclear arsenal. Magyar expressed a commitment to fostering friendly relations with Ukraine, contingent upon addressing the rights of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine, a topic that has been a point of contention under Orban's administration.

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Despite his pro-Ukrainian stance, Magyar acknowledged Hungary's ongoing dependence on Russian energy resources, stating that ensuring affordable oil and gas for Hungarian citizens remains a priority. He aims to reduce this reliance by 2035, aligning with the EU's goal to halt Russian energy imports by 2027. Critics may argue that Magyar's approach could lead to a compromise between moral imperatives and economic necessities.

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• “This is outrageous, cynical talk, unworthy of our 1956 heroes and freedom fighters,” — Peter Magyar, Prime Minister of Hungary

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• “I believe that once this war ends — and we very much hope negotiations will succeed and it will not drag on for years — at that moment Europe will lift these sanctions,” — Peter Magyar, Prime Minister of Hungary

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• “no country has the right to tell another to give up territory after a four-year war.” — Peter Magyar, Prime Minister of Hungary

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Magyar has indicated that he intends to engage with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, having already received congratulations from him. Their meeting is anticipated at the European Council once Magyar is officially sworn in, signaling a potential thaw in Hungary-Ukraine relations under his leadership.

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