Hungary’s new government has described Russia as a threat to Hungary, Europe and the international order, marking a major change in the country’s foreign policy. The position appears in a document prepared for Hungary’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly in September. Prime Minister Peter Magyar signed the document, which was published overnight in the official Hungarian gazette.
The statement represents a clear break with the policy of the previous government, led by Viktor Orbán. Orbán’s administration maintained close relations with Moscow, repeatedly criticised or delayed European Union sanctions against Russia and launched hostile political campaigns against Ukraine. Since February 2022, Ukraine has been resisting Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to ORF News.
The new guidelines contain a strong condemnation of Moscow’s military actions. They state that Hungary condemns “Russian military aggression” and fully supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. Budapest also recognises Ukraine’s right to defend itself against the invasion.
The document goes further by warning that Russia’s conduct threatens not only Hungary, but also Europe and the global order. “Russia’s behaviour represents a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order,” it says.
At the same time, the Hungarian government has expressed support for diplomatic efforts to end the war. It backs initiatives aimed at bringing the two sides to negotiations for a lasting peace and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.
The wording suggests that Hungary’s new leadership wants peace to be supported by firm protections for Ukraine’s future security, rather than achieved through a simple pause in fighting. It also signals a possible new direction for Budapest’s relations with Kyiv, Brussels and Moscow.
The policy shift is expected to attract considerable attention across Europe. For years, Hungary was often seen as one of Russia’s most sympathetic voices inside the European Union. The new government’s declaration suggests that Russia may now be viewed less as a partner and more as a serious security challenge.
