NATO allies express concern over Hungary’s engagement with Russia Article by Politico

NATO allies are increasingly concerned about Hungary's recent diplomatic manoeuvres, particularly its approach to Russia. 

The article by Politico notes that tensions surfaced on October 30 when Hungarian officials did not attend a meeting in Budapest with ambassadors and military advisers from NATO countries, Caliber.Az reports.

This meeting was intended to discuss Hungary’s foreign policy, which has included a focus on strengthening ties with Russia and China.

U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, David Pressman, acknowledged the importance of the discussions, stating, “We appreciated the opportunity to discuss Hungary’s new policy with our allies. The fact that a discussion about an ally’s ‘neutrality’ policy was necessary speaks for itself.”

While Hungary was absent from the NATO meeting, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó is set to address a security conference in Belarus on Thursday, where he will share the stage with notable figures such as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has been advocating for a policy of economic neutrality, suggesting a “shift from traditional Western alignment.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining relations with both eastern and western partners, stating in a radio interview last month, “We must preserve our relations eastward and westward.”

This stance has led to challenges within NATO and the EU, especially as Western nations support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia due to the ongoing conflict. Hungary has played a role in blocking EU initiatives aimed at reimbursing member states for arms supplies to Ukraine and complicating efforts to utilize frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's benefit.

Recently, Orbán found a political ally in Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has also expressed a willingness to engage with Russia. Fico's remarks, made during an interview with Russian media, indicated plans to visit Moscow next year for the anniversary of World War II.

In his diplomatic efforts, Orbán has engaged in direct talks with Moscow, including a meeting with Putin in July. This raised eyebrows within the EU, particularly as Hungary holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU. Critics noted that Orbán’s actions may not reflect the collective position of the bloc.

Orbán's recent visit to Tbilisi, where he expressed support for Georgia's ruling party amidst electoral controversies, further fueled concerns. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson remarked, “He does not speak for the countries of Europe, he does not speak for Sweden; he may speak for Russia, but he does not speak for the rest of us.”

Ambassador Pressman highlighted that Hungary's policy of economic neutrality and its growing ties with Russia and China could have broader implications for Euro-Atlantic security interests. Earlier this year, Hungary opted out of NATO's military aid mission to Ukraine and delayed Sweden’s application to join the alliance.

Despite these political differences, NATO officials have noted Hungary's continued contributions to the alliance, particularly in operational roles, including participation in NATO's mission in Kosovo and hosting a NATO command.

Hungary's current stance represents a notable shift from its original aspirations when it joined NATO in 1999, alongside Poland and the Czech Republic. At that time, Orbán celebrated Hungary’s independence from Moscow and the security that NATO membership provided.

By Tamilla Hasanova