Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto emphasized Budapest’s commitment to national interests in energy and foreign policy during discussions with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Speaking to reporters after their meeting, Szijjarto noted the long-standing collaboration between the two nations, calling the encounter “business as usual” at major international events.
Szijjarto highlighted Hungary’s desire for an end to the war, citing its proximity to conflict zones and prolonged exposure to its consequences. He accused the European Commission of neglecting member states’ energy security following Ukrainian strikes on the Druzhba oil pipeline, which supplies Hungary and Slovakia. “Instead of protecting our energy security, they gave us lectures,” he said. “This is a scandal. The Ukrainians knew attacking Druzhba would endanger Hungary’s energy supply, causing far more harm to us than to Russia.”
The minister criticized EU institutions for allegedly seeking to replace Hungary’s government, describing Budapest as a “non-mainstream” and “patriotic” administration prioritizing national interests over external pressures. He reiterated Hungary’s stance on maintaining energy cooperation with Russia, calling the country a reliable supplier of oil and gas.
Szijjarto also welcomed ongoing dialogue between Moscow and Washington, citing Lavrov’s mention of a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. “High-level contacts between Russia and the United States are crucial to avoiding further conflict,” he said.
