The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed strong criticism of the Hungarian government regarding its communication strategy towards Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky. In particular, the Ukrainian side emphasized the unfairness and groundlessness of the accusations coming from Budapest.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Tensions in Relations Between Ukraine and Hungary
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Georgiy Tikhiy noted that the Hungarian authorities often avoid fundamental issues, remaining aloof in critical situations, and when Kyiv attempts dialogue, they respond with nervous and escalatory statements. The Ukrainian foreign ministry emphasizes that good neighborly relations between Ukraine and Hungary are extremely important for both states.
“We take all issues raised by the Hungarian side regarding the rights and opportunities of the Hungarian national minority in Ukraine seriously and have repeatedly demonstrated a constructive and neighborly approach to this and other matters. However, good neighborliness must be mutual. The Hungarian authorities’ reliance on the primitive demonization of Ukraine is a losing and shortsighted strategy. We hope that the search for imaginary enemies will eventually pass, and the good neighborliness of our two nations will remain,” added Georgiy Tikhiy.
Political Context Ahead of Elections in Hungary
The statement from the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs was a response to comments made by Hungarian government spokesperson Zoltan Kovacs, who claimed that President Zelensky is “openly campaigning” for the Hungarian opposition party “Tisza.” Kovacs also accused the head of the Ukrainian state of interfering in Hungary’s internal affairs and of criticizing Prime Minister Viktor Orban for his “anti-European” stance and for using the topic of war for political gain.
It is worth noting that parliamentary elections will be held in Hungary in April 2026, during which a new government will be formed. Viktor Orban has led the country since 2010, but in the last four years, the ratings of his party, Fidesz, have been steadily declining.