Key facts
- Hungary's Defense Minister Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi announced Budapest is "closing the door" on Russia.
- The minister stated Hungary is aligning more closely with its allies.
- The new government under Prime Minister Peter Magyar is pursuing a more pro-European foreign policy.
- Russia's secret service has reportedly attempted to influence Hungary after its pivot away from Moscow.
- Hungary recently lifted a ban on Ukrainian media, signaling an effort to mend ties with Ukraine.
Budapest is "closing the door" on Russia and aligning more closely with its allies, according to Hungarian Defense Minister Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi. The shift signifies a move towards a more pro-European stance under the leadership of Prime Minister Peter Magyar, contrasting with the previous administration's approach.
Ruszin-Szendi indicated that Russia's secret service has attempted to exert influence on Hungary following its departure from Moscow's orbit. He stressed the importance of rebuilding trust within Hungary's alliances, asserting that the nation's interests are aligned with those of its partners. The minister also noted Hungary's attention to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and between the U.S. and Iran.