Hungary’s government declares Russia a threat in break from Orbán era

Hungary’s new government has declared Russia a “threat,” in a break from the country’s Russia-friendly foreign policy under the long-serving former prime minister, Viktor Orbán.

The classification appeared in a document setting out guidelines for the Hungarian delegation to the United Nations General Assembly in September, which was signed by Orbán’s successor Péter Magyar and entered into the country’s official gazette late on Tuesday.

“Hungary condemns Russian military aggression and fully supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders,” the document states. It also stresses that Hungary recognizes its eastern neighbour’s right to self-defence.

“Russia’s behaviour poses a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order,” the guidelines continue. Budapest supports all efforts that would lead to negotiations on “lasting peace and long-term security guarantees” for Ukraine.

During Orbán’s 16 years in power, Hungary watered down or obstructed EU sanctions against Russia and waged smear campaigns against Ukraine, which has been defending itself against a full-scale Russian invasion since February 2022. The country’s stance drew consistent criticism from the European Union.