The European Commission has formally requested clarification from the Hungarian government following explosive allegations that Budapest shared confidential EU negotiation details with Russian officials. According to a Washington Post investigation citing European security sources, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto allegedly maintained regular contact with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov during breaks in EU meetings, providing direct reports on internal discussions and suggesting potential courses of action.
These claims, described as “greatly concerning” by EU executives, emerge during particularly strained relations between Brussels and Budapest. The allegations gain significance given Hungary’s recent blocking of a crucial €90 billion aid package to Ukraine and Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s continued diplomatic engagement with Moscow despite the ongoing conflict.
Minister Szijjarto has vehemently denied the reports, labeling them as “fake news” and “senseless conspiracy theories.” Hungarian European Affairs Minister Janos Boka defended the communications as normal diplomatic practice, while curiously questioning why other EU foreign ministers don’t maintain similar contact with Russian officials.
The German government has characterized the allegations as “very serious,” emphasizing that EU discussions remain confidential and violations won’t be tolerated. Prime Minister Orban has responded aggressively, claiming the reports constitute “eavesdropping on a member of government” and ordering an investigation—despite the Washington Post article containing no mention of wiretapping activities.
This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Hungary’s upcoming April elections, with Orban’s party trailing in polls and European officials increasingly vocal about their frustration with Budapest’s obstructionist stance on Ukraine support.