Hungary Defends Decision to Ease Entry Rules for Russians and Belarusians Amid EU Criticism.
For years, Hungary’s government in Budapest has faced criticism from several EU states over its perceived proximity to the Kremlin.
Hungary’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Péter Szijjártó, has responded to these critics, particularly from northern and western European nations, accusing them of spreading “fake news” about Budapest’s recent decision to relax entry rules for Russian and Belarusian nationals.
During a press conference in Bucharest on Tuesday, Szijjártó addressed the ongoing tensions between Hungary and the EU regarding its relationship with Russia.
He labeled the criticism as hypocritical. “Whenever Hungary opposes a stance taken by most European countries, we are often branded as ‘Russian spies,’ ‘Trojan horses,’ or ‘Kremlin propagandists,'” he said. “Yet, when a Western European country vetoes a European decision, it is considered standard practice. This is highly hypocritical.”
Szijjártó specifically addressed the National Cards issued to Russians and Belarusians, claiming that Baltic and Nordic countries are leading a “very clear fake news campaign” against Hungary. He stated, “They are lying. Hungary has not eased any procedures that allow third-country nationals to enter the country.”
The National Card immigration scheme permits foreign workers to stay in Hungary for at least two years and potentially obtain permanent residency. Initially, this scheme was available to nationals from Serbia and Ukraine, but it has been extended to include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Moldova.
However, the inclusion of Belarus and Russia in the scheme has raised security concerns among Nordic and Baltic nations, who worry about the potential risks to the EU.
Szijjártó’s comments come as Romania, Hungary, Georgia, and Azerbaijan announced a joint venture to install a power line under the Black Sea. This project aims to increase the flow of renewable energy from the eastern Caucasus to the EU. Approved by leaders from the four countries in 2022, the initiative gained traction following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting rise in energy prices. Energy ministers assert that the project will bolster energy security and reduce costs for consumers.