Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Russia anticipates continued "pragmatic contact" between Moscow and Budapest under Hungary’s new leadership.

Peskov said Moscow respects the outcome of the vote, which brought Peter Magyar and his Tisza party to power after defeating the ruling party of longtime Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

“Hungarians have made their choice. We respect that choice,” Peskov told reporters, signaling a measured response from Moscow to the political transition in Budapest.

Peskov noted that Magyar had previously indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with Russia, suggesting that such an approach could benefit both countries.

“Of course, this would be useful for both Moscow and Budapest,” he said. “What the new Hungarian leadership will do—we need to be patient and see. We are interested in building good relations with Hungary, as with all European countries.”

The Kremlin’s remarks indicate a cautious but open stance toward Hungary’s incoming leadership, emphasizing continuity in diplomatic and economic engagement despite the change in government.

The election result marks a significant turning point in Hungarian politics. Orbán, who had led the country for years, was widely viewed as one of Russia’s closest allies within Europe, maintaining relatively strong ties with Russia compared to other European Union members.

The defeat of Orbán’s ruling party on April 12 signals a potential shift in Hungary’s foreign policy direction, particularly in its relations with both Moscow and Western partners.

During the election campaign, reports surfaced alleging that Russian authorities had attempted to support Orbán in order to maintain a friendly government in Budapest. Moscow, however, firmly denied any involvement in Hungary’s domestic political process.

While the Kremlin has expressed readiness to work with Hungary’s new leadership, analysts say the future of bilateral relations will depend on the policies adopted by the incoming government.

For now, Russia appears focused on maintaining stable and “pragmatic” ties, as both countries navigate a new political landscape following Hungary’s elections.  (ILKHA)