New dawn in US‑Hungary ties heralded by diplomatic talks
A golden age in relations between the United States and Hungary is approaching, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto declared after a conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
"This telephone conversation confirmed that a new golden age is approaching in political relations between the United States and Hungary," Szijjarto wrote on social media.
The head of diplomacy also stated that both sides confirmed their mutual commitment to rebuilding bilateral relations. Szijjarto reiterated that "under the Democratic Party's rule, these relations hit a low point, but now Marco Rubio made it clear that they are interested in rebuilding Hungarian-American relations and that this system of relations will be better than ever before."
Szijjarto also assured Rubio that Hungary would "enthusiastically, decisively, and vocally support any initiatives in the future that may bring us closer to ending the war (Russia against Ukraine) and to peace." He assessed that over the past three years, Hungary has faced a very serious threat to its security and has suffered significant economic losses.
Without a doubt, it is in Hungary's interest for Donald Trump to succeed and be able to end this war. My colleague confirmed that this is one of Donald Trump's most important goals for the American government—Szijjarto informed.
The minister also positively assessed Trump's initial decisions. "I was pleased with the executive orders issued this week by the U.S. president, which, in terms of migration, peace or war, family support, respect for sovereignty, and patriotism, completely agree with the Hungarian government's policies," added Szijjarto.
Orban threatens to block EU sanctions on Russia
Viktor Orban stated in a Friday radio interview for Radio Kossuth that Hungary would not support extending sanctions on Russia if Ukraine does not resume the transit of Russian gas to Europe. Orban argued that Hungary cannot bear the economic consequences of sanctions aimed at helping Ukraine.
Donald Trump announced that if a deal ending the war in Ukraine is not reached, Washington will impose high taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on Russia. The portal "Politico" reported that Budapest might abandon its veto threat due to Trump’s hard stance on Russia. The EU must make the decision to extend the sanctions by January 31. A meeting of the foreign ministers of the EU is scheduled for Monday.
