Hungarian opposition leader Peter Magyar has called on Russia to guarantee it will not interfere in Hungary’s politics, saying any future cooperation depends on respecting the country’s sovereignty.

In an open letter to Moscow’s ambassador in Budapest, Magyar demanded Russia refrain from disinformation campaigns, cyber operations, or intimidation. He said interference would undermine Hungary’s democratic process.

The move came after Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) accused him of loyalty to “globalist elites” and claimed the European Commission was considering “regime change in Budapest.”

Political context

Magyar’s Tisza Party is leading Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s ruling Fidesz in most polls ahead of elections due next spring. His challenge marks the most serious threat Orban has faced since taking office in 2010.

The Russian Embassy in Budapest has not yet commented on Magyar’s demand.

Moscow ties under Orban

Orban has faced criticism in the European Union for his close ties with Moscow and opposition to military support for Ukraine. He has accused EU leaders of plotting to remove him.

Russia continues to supply Hungary with most of its energy and is involved in the expansion of the Paks nuclear plant.

Magyar’s stance

Magyar, a former government insider, has said he wants pragmatic relations with Russia. But he warned that Moscow’s recent comments showed an attempt to sway Hungarian voters directly.

“Hungary’s sovereignty and the inviolability of our democratic processes cannot be negotiable,” he wrote. “These principles are the minimum requirement for any meaningful cooperation.”

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