In April, NATO allies agreed to launch a $107 billion fund to provide military support to Ukraine in response to Russia’s military campaign. Despite this initiative, Hungary’s Foreign Minister has announced that the country will not be participating in NATO’s long-term plan to support Ukraine. Peter Szijjarto stated that Hungary will stand aside from the NATO initiative despite any pressure.
The decision of Hungary not to participate in the NATO initiative has strained relations between Hungary and NATO. The Hungarian government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs also stated that Budapest does not support proposals that could lead the alliance closer to conflict or push it towards offensive actions. This is partly due to delays in ratifying Sweden’s accession and Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s close ties to Russia.
US special envoy David Pressman has warned Hungary about the risks of its growing relationship with Moscow, urging the country to consider its security interests. However, it remains unclear how Hungary will decide how best to protect its security interests moving forward.
