Hungary Signs Agreement with Russia: Opening New Economic Ties Ahead of Elections
In December 2025, Hungary entered into a significant 12-point agreement with Russia, aimed at expanding economic, trade, energy, and cultural connections between the two nations. This agreement, revealed through Politico materials, was signed by Hungary's Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó and Russia's Health Minister Mikhail Murashko during the 16th session of the Russian-Hungarian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation held in Moscow.
Hungary has solidified its ties with Russia by signing a comprehensive agreement in December 2025, which consists of 12 key points designed to enhance economic, trade, energy, and cultural relations between the two countries. This pivotal document was signed by Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó and Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko during the 16th session of the Russian-Hungarian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, which took place on December 9, 2025, in Moscow.
The agreement outlines several critical initiatives that indicate the Hungarian government's intent to deepen economic and political cooperation with Russia. Notably, it includes a commitment to 'alter the negative dynamics of bilateral trade' that have arisen due to European Union sanctions against Russia, which have significantly impacted trade volumes between the nations. Furthermore, the agreement opens new avenues for Russian companies in Hungary's electricity and hydrogen energy sectors, while also facilitating closer collaboration in oil, gas, and nuclear fuel industries.
As part of the agreement, Budapest has agreed to enhance the study of the Russian language within the country, including the recruitment of teachers from Russia. Additionally, it stipulates mutual recognition of qualifications and the establishment of exchange programs for postgraduate students. The Hungarian government has expressed support for ongoing exchange programs across various fields, from sports to circus arts, despite concerns that Moscow uses cultural events to propagate its narratives regarding the war in Ukraine.
The parties have also endorsed a joint action plan for 2026-2027 to further cooperation in the realm of sports. One document emphasizes that closer ties with Russia should not be 'incompatible with Hungary's obligations arising from its membership in the European Union.'
Commenting on the agreements with Russia, Peter Szijjártó stated that 'Hungary's bilateral cooperation is guided by national interests, not by pressure from extremely biased liberal media.' This assertion highlights the Hungarian government's determination to continue fostering relations with the Kremlin, despite criticism from the EU.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and members of his government, including Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó, have made several visits to Moscow for meetings with Vladimir Putin and other Kremlin representatives, notwithstanding the backlash from the European Union. For instance, on December 9, 2025, Szijjártó arrived in Moscow with a large delegation of Hungarian businessmen, and reports indicated another visit by the Hungarian Foreign Minister to the Russian capital on March 4, 2026.
It is also noteworthy that on March 21, The Washington Post reported that Szijjártó regularly informed Moscow about the proceedings of European Union meetings, providing his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov with 'live reports on what was discussed' during summits. This behavior raises concerns, as it may indicate a betrayal of Hungary's national interests.
Simultaneously, Szijjártó and Orbán have consistently made anti-Ukrainian statements, leveling accusations against Ukraine and blocking EU decisions, including a €90 billion loan for Ukraine. With parliamentary elections in Hungary scheduled for April 12, 2026, polls indicate that the opposition party Tisza is leading over Orbán's ruling Fidesz party. This shift could have serious implications for Hungary's political direction in the future.