Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar and President Zelensky meet to improve bilateral ties

Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held their first official bilateral meeting in Brussels on October 16, 2026, aiming to reset diplomatic relations between their nations. The leaders focused on resolving ongoing tensions regarding the rights of the Hungarian ethnic minority in Ukraine.

Magyar, who has adopted a less confrontational approach than his predecessor Viktor Orban, expressed full solidarity with Ukraine against the Russian invasion. However, he maintained that Hungary will continue its policy of not sending weapons to Ukraine. The Hungarian Prime Minister stated that his government is prepared to assist through diplomatic means to facilitate a ceasefire and achieve lasting peace.

This meeting marks a shift in the bilateral climate, with both parties seeking to establish a new foundation for cooperation. The discussions represent a significant step in addressing the long-standing disputes that previously hindered closer collaboration between Budapest and Kyiv.