Szijjártó accuses EU of blackmail over Hungary's Ukrainian peace mission

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó has accused the EU leadership of using threats and blackmail to pressure Hungary into abandoning its peace mission aimed at resolving the Ukrainian conflict.

Szijjártó stated that pro-war EU politicians immediately reacted negatively to Budapest's peace initiative, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

He mentioned that European leaders threatened Hungary with boycotts, refusal to engage in negotiations, and diplomatic isolation. However, he emphasized that Hungary would not abandon its peace mission, noting that Budapest is already facing EU financial sanctions and questioning how European leaders could further escalate their threats.

He also mentioned that the second round of the conference on the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict could take place later this year, with Russia expected to participate in the talks.

"We know that efforts are being made to hold the next stage of the peace conference already this year, and we would certainly welcome and appreciate it," Szijjártó told journalists.

In response to a question about Hungary's preferences in the US presidential race, Szijjártó expressed support for Donald Trump's victory in the upcoming US election, noting that relations between Washington and Budapest were strong during Trump's presidency.

"Undoubtedly, we are crossing our fingers for Trump's victory. But we are not US citizens, so I don't think it matters," he said, adding that no significant wars occurred during Trump's tenure.