A New Chapter in Hungary-Ukraine Relations?
Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar has signaled readiness to enter a new phase in relations with Ukraine, but insists that progress hinges on restoring the rights of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia. He linked Ukraine's EU accession negotiations to resolving this issue. Magyar urged Kyiv to overturn what he called 'decades of legislative restrictions' affecting ethnic Hungarians in the region, which is home to roughly 100,000 ethnic Hungarians.
Energy Dependence and Political Interests
In an interview with the Polish outlet Rzeczpospolita, as reported by Glavcom, Magyar acknowledged Hungary's reliance on Russian gas and oil. However, he also stressed the country's push to diversify energy sources. According to him, liquefied natural gas via the Baltic Sea is more expensive than gas from Russia, Romania, or Austria. Magyar did not rule out resuming purchases of Russian gas after the war in Ukraine ends.
Discussing support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Magyar remarked that politics is driven by interests, not friendships. He noted that during Orban's election campaign, backing came from leaders across the globe, including:
- the U.S. President,
- the Israeli Prime Minister,
- the presidents of Turkey, Serbia, and Russia,
- and the Slovak Prime Minister.
It is also worth noting that Hungary's Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador following a massive strike on Transcarpathia on May 13.
Additionally, during his visit to Warsaw, Magyar recognized Russia as the aggressor and affirmed Ukraine's right to self-defense. Hungary and Ukraine have agreed to hold a round of consultations on bilateral relations, signaling a desire for constructive dialogue.
'We are very glad to have several supply sources, because that ensures greater security. And it gives a better starting point for negotiations on lower prices.' - Peter Magyar
Looking at the Hungarian prime minister's statements, it is clear that the rights of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia remain a central issue in Ukraine-Hungary ties. Resolving these matters could positively impact cooperation between the two countries, especially in the context of Ukraine's European integration. Given Europe's energy landscape, Hungary's push to diversify its energy sources also underscores the importance of strategic stability in the region.
As Hungary navigates its complex ties with Ukraine, the implications for Ukraine's aspirations for EU membership become increasingly significant. To understand the broader context of these diplomatic dynamics, it is essential to explore the latest demands put forth by Hungary's future leadership regarding Ukraine's EU accession process. For more details on this development, see Hungary's new conditions for Ukraine's EU bid.