EU calls for clarification after Hungary accused of leaking info to Russia

The European Commission is seeking clarification from Hungary following reports that Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto shared confidential EU negotiation information with Russia. A Washington Post article alleged Szijjarto regularly contacted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during EU meetings to provide updates on discussions and strategies. Szijjarto has dismissed the report as false. The allegations have sparked concern within the EU, with Germany calling them "very serious" and emphasizing the importance of confidentiality in EU discussions. The controversy arises amidst strained relations between Hungary and the EU, particularly regarding Hungary's previous blockage of aid to Ukraine.

Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar accused the ruling Fidesz party of treason, alleging Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó routinely shared confidential EU meeting details with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov. Magyar, whose Tisza party is challenging Viktor Orbán's government in upcoming elections, stated that if confirmed, this would betray Hungarian and European interests and warrant investigation. The European Commission has requested clarification from Hungary regarding the alleged leaks, calling them "greatly concerning" and emphasizing the importance of trust among member states. The accusations follow a report in the Washington Post detailing the alleged information sharing. Relations between Hungary and other EU nations have recently become strained, with Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressing long-held suspicions about Hungary's relationship with Moscow.