Hungary Admits Russia Calls During EU Talks, Deepening Rift With Brussels Hungary’s foreign minister has admitted he regularly speaks with Russia during private European Union meetings — a revelation that is fuelling alarm in Brussels and intensifying political tensions ahead of Hungary’s national elections. Péter Szijjártó confirmed he contacts Russia’s foreign minister Sergei Lavrov during breaks in EU foreign affairs meetings. The disclosure follows reports that such conversations had been taking place routinely despite the confidential nature of EU deliberations. From ‘Fake News’ to Open Admission The Hungarian government initially dismissed reports of the calls as fabrication. But speaking at a campaign event in Keszthely, Szijjártó acknowledged the contacts. “Yes, these issues must be discussed with our partners outside the European Union,” he said. The minister insisted diplomacy requires speaking with multiple countries, adding he also talks with officials from the United States, Turkey, Israel and Serbia around EU meetings. His remarks effectively confirm that communication with Moscow occurs while sensitive EU policy discussions are under way. Brussels Demands Answers The admission has triggered concern within the bloc. The European Commission described the reports as “concerning” and called on Budapest to clarify the extent of the contacts. EU member states operate under a principle of “sincere cooperation”, meaning confidential policy discussions are not expected to be shared with outside governments. If sensitive information was passed on, diplomats warn it could represent a serious breach of trust inside the union. Orbán’s Moscow Ties Under Scrutiny Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has maintained some of the closest relations with Moscow within the EU since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Budapest continues to import large volumes of Russian fossil fuels and has repeatedly resisted efforts to isolate the Kremlin. Szijjártó himself has travelled to Moscow 16 times since the war began, most recently meeting Vladimir Putin earlier this month. Election Pressure Mounts The controversy lands in the middle of a heated campaign before Hungary’s parliamentary vote. Orbán’s ruling Fidesz party faces a growing challenge from the opposition Tisza Party led by Péter Magyar, which recent polls suggest has taken the lead. Hungarian foreign minister admits calling Russia's Lavrov during key EU meetings
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