Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has refuted claims that Hungary possesses negative feelings towards Ukraine. Instead, he argues that it is Ukraine that has pursued a series of hostile policies against Hungary for several years. This assertion was made during the EU Foreign Affairs Council, amidst a backdrop of tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning energy security issues.

Szijjarto's comments were prompted by inquiries from the press regarding Hungary's position on Ukraine and its reluctance to support further sanctions against Russia. He highlighted that the Ukrainian government has impeded Hungary's energy security by disrupting oil supplies through the key Druzhba pipeline, a crucial route for energy supplies from Russia to Hungary and Slovakia. This has exacerbated tensions, with Szijjarto firmly stating that Hungary does not hate Ukraine; rather, it is Ukraine's actions that have created animosity.

The situation reflects broader geopolitical dynamics in Central Europe, particularly in the context of Hungary's dependence on Russian energy amid European Union tensions with Moscow. Hungary's threat to veto additional sanctions against Russia indicates its stance within the EU, prioritizing national energy security over collective European policies. This episode illustrates the complexity of regional relationships, as Hungary navigates its interests while balancing its EU commitments, and it raises questions about future diplomatic engagements with Ukraine and Russia.