Photo: Collected
US Ambassador to Budapest David Pressman raised concerns over the Hungarian government’s approach to developing ties with Russia and China.
"Hungary is pursuing a relationship with the US – and a relationship with Russia and China – unlike any other ally. "
Given that Hungary faces a number of serious problems, including a military conflict in neighboring Ukraine and corruption, the US intends to "remain focused on advancing security and democracy," including by supporting Ukraine, "standing up for democratic institutions and independent voices upon which democracy depends. "
Earlier in April, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that Hungary does not want to give up economic cooperation with Russia, but on the contrary would prefer to increase it in areas not affected by sanctions, since economic activities will continue once the conflict in Ukraine is over and the Russian market is important for Hungary.
Meanwhile, Hungary is actively developing ties with the US, as former US President Donald Trump and Orban are longtime allies who share conservative political views and have publicly expressed mutual respect and support. Orban has thrown his support behind Trump both in the US presidential race and the legal challenges he is facing at the moment.
Messenger/Mumu
