Péter Magyar, Hungary's prime minister-elect, declared he would answer a call from Vladimir Putin to urge an end to Russia's war in Ukraine, marking a sharp departure from his predecessor's stance. The announcement came during a marathon press conference following his landslide election victory, which ended Viktor Orbán's 16-year rule.
Magyar emphasized that while he does not plan to initiate contact with the Russian leader, he would not avoid a conversation. "If Vladimir Putin calls, I'll pick up the phone," he stated. "I don't think it'll happen, but if we did talk, I'd tell him to please, after four years, put an end to the killing and end this war." He acknowledged the unlikelihood of Putin heeding his advice, predicting a brief call.
The new leader also addressed his approach to U.S. relations, noting he would not call Donald Trump but would welcome a conversation if initiated by the former president. Magyar highlighted Hungary's NATO membership and extended an invitation to Trump for the 70th anniversary of the Hungarian uprising against Soviet occupation next October.
Magyar's victory, with his Tisza party securing a two-thirds "super majority" in parliament, enables constitutional changes and signals a dramatic political shift. He described the outcome as a vote for "complete regime change," driven by public demand to end corruption and cronyism.
European leaders quickly congratulated Magyar, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating, "Hungary has chosen Europe." Magyar confirmed speaking with 10 European leaders already and outlined plans for diplomatic visits to Poland, Austria, and Germany, stressing Hungary's commitment to the EU and interest in joining the eurozone.
In contrast to Orbán's frequent criticism of the EU and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Magyar affirmed that "every Hungarian knows that Ukraine is the victim of the war with Russia." He argued the conflict is senseless for Russia as well, citing massive casualties and destruction.
The press conference took a dramatic turn when Magyar alleged that outgoing Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó was shredding confidential documents related to Russian sanctions at the ministry building that day. This followed previous scrutiny over Hungary's ties to Russia, including leaks of Szijjártó telling Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, "I am at your service."
Magyar, a 45-year-old former insider from Orbán's Fidesz party, launched a grassroots movement that capitalized on voter fatigue with Orbán's policies. His election represents a potential realignment in European politics, moving Hungary toward closer integration with Western allies while maintaining a pragmatic openness to dialogue with Moscow.