Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has responded to reports alleging he shared strategic information with Russia, calling them “foreign interference.” The claims surfaced in leaked audio and reports from investigative journalists.
An audio clip released Tuesday revealed a discussion between Szijjártó and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, concerning EU sanctions, occurring days before a crucial election. Reports also indicate Szijjártó allegedly disclosed sensitive information during Foreign Affairs Council meetings in Brussels.
Investigations suggest the Hungarian government may have acted to remove a Russian oligarch’s sister from the European Union’s sanctions list. Prime Minister Victor Orbán has consistently aimed to keep Hungary separate from the Ukraine-Russia war while safeguarding Hungarian interests.
Szijjártó stated he was “at his service” to Lavrov in one leaked phone call, as controversy surrounds his actions and potential impact on Hungary’s pro-Moscow stance.