Hungary labels Russia "threat" in major foreign policy shift

Hungary has identified Russia as a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order as part of a new foreign policy course following a change of government, marking a departure from the approach pursued by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

The position is set out in a document prepared for Hungary's delegation to the United Nations General Assembly and published in the country's official government gazette. 

“Russia's behaviour poses a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order,” the Hungarian government said.

The document describes the new policy as a break with the foreign policy pursued by Orban, who had opposed tighter sanctions against Russia and advocated maintaining close relations with Moscow.

At the same time, Budapest has called for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. According to the document, Hungary supports efforts to bring the parties to negotiations aimed at securing lasting peace and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.

By Tamilla Hasanova