Hungarian PM Péter Magyar Says Zelenskyy Visit Unlikely
Usagevpn.com – Hungarian PM Péter Magyar says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is unlikely to travel to Budapest for Hungary’s national commemorations on 23 October, despite receiving an invitation from Kyiv’s neighbour.
The ceremony will mark 70 years since the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, when an uprising against Soviet control was crushed by Soviet forces. More than 100 political figures have reportedly been invited to the anniversary events in the Hungarian capital.
Possible meeting could take place later
Although a Budapest appearance later this month appears improbable, Magyar said the two leaders could still meet before the end of the year. They spoke at the European Union summit in Brussels on Friday as both countries sought to improve a relationship affected by disagreements over minority rights and Ukraine’s EU integration.
Hungarian PM Péter Magyar says one possible arrangement would see him travel to Kyiv before continuing with Zelenskyy to Beregszász, a town in Ukraine’s Transcarpathia region with a sizeable Hungarian community. Another option would involve Zelenskyy travelling to Budapest before the pair continue to Beregszász.
“Either I will travel to Kyiv and from there we will go together to Beregszász, or the president will come to Budapest and from there we will go to Beregszász,” Magyar said.
The proposed visit reflects the importance Hungary places on the situation of ethnic Hungarians in western Ukraine. Budapest has repeatedly raised concerns about minority protections, while Kyiv has sought continued international backing as it defends itself against Russia’s invasion.
After the Brussels discussion, Magyar said he had expressed full solidarity with Ukraine. He also said both sides supported continued ministerial talks, particularly on improving conditions for minority communities in the two countries.
“Continue talks at ministerial level, with a special focus on improving the situation of minorities in both countries,” Magyar said the sides had agreed.
Invitation remains open for October commemoration
Zelenskyy’s deputy chief of staff, Ihor Zhovkva, confirmed earlier that the Ukrainian president had received an invitation to the 23 October event. He did not say whether Zelenskyy would attend.
“We have received an invitation. On 23 October, an event will be held to mark the 70th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution,” Zhovkva said. “The President of Ukraine has received an invitation to attend. We shall see.”
Hungarian PM Péter Magyar says Russian President Vladimir Putin was not invited to the commemoration. The decision carries particular symbolism given the anniversary’s connection to Soviet repression and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
Hungary and Ukraine share a border, and their bilateral relationship has implications for Ukraine’s ambition to join the European Union. Hungary has at times used its EU position to press Kyiv on issues involving the Hungarian minority, complicating Ukraine’s path toward closer integration with the bloc.
Even without an October visit, a future meeting between Zelenskyy and Magyar could provide an opportunity to restart practical cooperation on political, economic and minority-related issues. No final decision on the Ukrainian president’s travel plans has been announced.
FAQ: Zelenskyy’s possible visit to Hungary
Is Zelenskyy expected in Budapest on 23 October? No final decision has been announced, but Magyar said he does not expect Zelenskyy to attend the 1956 Revolution anniversary events.
Why is Beregszász being discussed? The town is in Ukraine’s Transcarpathia region and has a significant Hungarian community, making it relevant to talks about minority rights.
Why do Hungary-Ukraine relations matter to the EU? Hungary’s position within the EU can affect discussions about Ukraine’s membership path, while bilateral dialogue may help address recurring disputes.
