Hungary–EU tensions rise over Russia sanctions dispute

The Hungarian government has defended Foreign Minister Péter Szijjarto’s communication with Russian officials as a routine part of diplomacy.

Gergely Gulyas, head of the Prime Minister’s Office, said the content of the leaked recordings contained nothing unexpected and was consistent with Budapest’s long-standing policy. Hungary has for years opposed EU energy sanctions, arguing they harm both European and domestic interests.

Investigative journalists, however, say Hungary has gone further, actively resisting certain measures and lobbying for the removal of specific Russian individuals from the EU sanctions list.

In phone calls with his Russian counterparts, Szijjarto is also reported to have informed them in advance about forthcoming sanctions.

The minister has rejected these claims, insisting his public and private positions have been consistent. He also suggested his communications may have been monitored by foreign intelligence services.

According to Politico, the EU has responded by limiting Hungary’s access to sensitive information.

(tasr, pir)