Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto strongly criticized the plan of some Western European countries to deploy troops to Ukraine, warning that this step could push Europe into the risk of direct military confrontation with Russia.
The reaction came after British and French leaders announced that they had signed a "declaration of intention" with Kiev on the deployment of Western forces in Ukraine "in case of reaching a peace agreement" with Moscow. According to the plan, these forces will establish "military centers" and participate in the future ceasefire monitoring mechanism.
According to Mr. Szijjarto, the above initiative is a dangerous step, increasing tensions instead of creating conditions for peace.
The establishment of a military presence of Western European countries in Ukraine is creating a risk of a direct war with Russia" - Hungarian Foreign Minister wrote on social network X, while affirming that Budapest will not participate in this initiative.
The Hungarian diplomat emphasized his country's consistent stance of supporting diplomatic solutions and peace talks, including dialogue at the highest level between the US and Russia.
Mr. Szijjarto called on Europe not to be drawn deeper into conflict through military moves, which only escalate the situation and prolong the war.
Hungary has long had different views with many Western European partners of Ukraine. Budapest has repeatedly criticized what they call a "fierce" approach, prioritizing military aid instead of promoting dialogue with Russia. The Hungarian government also opposes expanding military and financial support for Kiev, saying that these steps do not bring the region closer to peace.
Budapest's position continues to receive attention as Russia has repeatedly warned that all foreign forces deployed in Ukraine, including under the guise of peacekeeping, will be considered legitimate military targets. In that context, Hungary affirmed that it will stay out of military deployment plans, and called for prioritizing diplomatic efforts to avoid a larger confrontation in Europe.
