Hungary’s minister helped Russian oligarchs.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó spoke with Russian officials while the EU considered sanctions. He advocated for removing sanctions on Russian businesses and opposing further sanctions on oil tankers. This has caused concern about Hungary’s relationship with Russia.
Péter Szijjártó held discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. These talks focused on Hungary’s concerns about energy supplies and the situation in Ukraine. A leaked phone call revealed Szijjártó’s efforts to remove Russian individuals from EU sanctions lists. Hungarian officials offered assistance to Russian oligarchs to circumvent sanctions. This has led to accusations of treason and calls for Hungary to lose its voting rights within the European Union. NATO allies have also cut ties with Hungary due to these concerns.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
Szijjártó spoke with Russian officials
Hungarian Foreign Minister Szijjártó acknowledged speaking with Russian officials while the EU considered sanctions.
Hungary sought sanctions removal
Hungarian officials, including Szijjártó, aimed to remove Russian individuals and companies from the EU sanctions list.
Hungary assisted oligarchs
Hungarian and Slovakian officials helped Russian oligarchs circumvent EU sanctions.
Szijjártó offered support to Lawrow
Szijjártó offered support to Russian Foreign Minister Lawrow regarding EU sanctions.
Hungary denied information sharing
Szijjártó denied reports he shared information with Russia, calling it ‘foreign interference’.
Perspectives
- Szijjártó acknowledged speaking with Russian officials.
- Szijjártó defended his actions as standard diplomatic practice.
- Hungary prioritized its energy security and peace negotiations.
- Hungary and Slovakia helped Russian oligarchs circumvent EU sanctions.
Szijjártó and the Hungarian government prioritize energy security and peace negotiations, advocating for removing sanctions on Russian businesspeople and opposing further sanctions on Russian oil tankers.
Szijjártó, EU Observer, NOS Nieuws, Público, EurActiv
The EU views Hungary’s actions as undermining sanctions and potentially aiding Russia.
RTBF, EU Observer, RTBF, France24 English, EurActiv
Szijjártó describes the communication as ‘normal diplomacy’ and a key diplomatic effort to maintain dialogue.
Der Standard, ORF News, Der Spiegel
The exchange raises concerns about Hungary’s relationship with Russia and its stance on international sanctions, potentially influencing upcoming elections.
RTBF, EU Observer, NOS Nieuws, Der Spiegel, FAZ
Szijjártó denies sharing information and claims the allegations are ‘foreign interference’.
France24 English, Szijjártó
Opposition figures accuse Szijjártó of treason, suggesting his actions are a serious breach of international law.
New, EurActiv