Hungary and Russia Forge Deeper Ties
POLITICO has obtained documents detailing a 12-point plan to deepen cooperation between Hungary and Russia, which was signed in December 2025. This agreement comes at a time of significant geopolitical tension in Europe. The plan covers a range of sectors including energy, trade, education, and culture. It was signed in Moscow on December 9, 2025, during the 16th session of the Russian-Hungarian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation. This commission was established in 2005 and typically meets approximately once a year, alternating between Russia and Hungary.
Key Provisions of the Agreement
- Reversing the negative trend in bilateral trade;
- Opening doors for Russian companies in the electric power and hydrogen sectors;
- Cooperation in the fields of oil, gas, and nuclear fuel;
- Strengthening the teaching of the Russian language in education;
- Inviting teachers from Russia;
- Mutual recognition of diplomas and exchange programs for postgraduate students;
- Support for exchange programs in sports and circus arts;
- Developing a joint action plan in sports for 2026-2027.
This development occurs ahead of parliamentary elections in Hungary, where relations with Russia have become a key campaign issue. The main political rival of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is Péter Magyar, who represents the opposition Tisza party. Orbán, for his part, leads the Fidesz party, which has emphasized national interests in its bilateral cooperation.
Hungary's bilateral cooperation is defined by national interests, not by pressure to conform to the extremely biased liberal mainstream media. Continue your biased work!
— Péter Szijjártó, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs
It is important to note that the gap between the 14th session in November 2021 and the 15th in September 2024 occurred against the backdrop of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022. These factors may influence the political situation in Hungary as the country heads to the polls on Sunday.
The deepening of cooperation between Hungary and Russia could have a significant impact on regional politics, as strengthened economic and cultural links may cause concern among neighboring countries and the European Union. Hungary, which has traditionally supported some Russian initiatives, could become an important player in the context of European energy security and political alliances, especially amid rising tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine. Consequently, the outcome of the parliamentary elections may shape the future trajectory of these relations.
This agreement comes at a critical juncture as allegations of Russian influence loom over Hungary's upcoming parliamentary elections. The evolving political landscape, marked by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's strategic ties with Russia, could significantly impact the electoral dynamics and voter sentiment.