Hungary's New Premier Péter Magyar Wants to Meet Ukraine's President Zelenskyy

Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar signaled his readiness to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy early next week, contingent on the successful conclusion of technical negotiations regarding the rights of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine by the end of this week. Magyar conveyed this possibility during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Magyar expressed optimism about resolving the minority rights issue, stating that such a resolution could pave the way for a "new chapter" in the bilateral relationship between Ukraine and Hungary. He also emphasized Germany's importance as a partner, referencing the shared history between the two nations during his introductory visit to Berlin.

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We understand that Budapest first wants to clarify bilateral issues, such as the rights of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Chancellor Merz reiterated Germany's support for initiating European Union accession talks with Ukraine. He acknowledged Budapest's priority to address bilateral matters, such as the rights of the Hungarian minority, but stressed that these discussions should not impede European support for Ukraine or the objective of formally opening accession negotiations with the "first chapter."

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This must not come at the expense of European support and must not distract us from the goal of formally opening accession negotiations with Ukraine now with the first chapter.