"It's foolish to allow a nation currently at war to join the European Union (EU)", said Peter Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, which won Hungary's general election last weekend. He made the remark regarding Ukraine during an international press conference lasting over three hours in Budapest on 13/4.

As the Tisza party secured over two-thirds of the seats in parliament, Magyar is almost certain to be elected as Hungary's next prime minister. He will replace Viktor Orban, leader of the Fidesz party, who has held power for the past 16 consecutive years. Magyar is expected to take office on 5/5.

Magyar campaigned on policies that differed significantly from Prime Minister Orban's, but his latest statement suggests Hungary's stance on Ukraine may remain unchanged. He also stated that Hungary would maintain the Orban administration's position of not contributing to the EU's 90 billion euro aid package for Ukraine, but would not obstruct other countries from implementing the plan.

He did not further comment on whether Hungary would support Ukraine benefiting from a fast-track EU accession mechanism once the conflict ends, but he deemed the prospect of Kyiv joining the bloc within the next 10 years as "not feasible".

This statement indicates that Hungary's approach will differ from many other European nations, as the EU currently discusses potential bloc expansion, including a scenario for Ukraine's rapid accession.

Peter Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, speaks at an international press conference in Budapest on 13/4. *Photo: AP*

Nevertheless, Magyar articulated a stance supporting Ukraine's right to determine its own future in negotiations with Russia, stating that no nation has the right to compel Ukraine to accept an unfavorable peace agreement, especially one involving territorial concessions.

"No one should dictate the terms under which Ukraine must sign a peace agreement. We cannot demand that any country cede territory", he said.

While Prime Minister Orban is known for his pro-Russia stance, Magyar is considered to lean more towards the EU.

The 45-year-old politician stated that he is ready for discussions if he receives a call from Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding that his initial message during the phone conversation would be to urge Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine, thereby opening opportunities for dialogue.

Regarding energy policy, Magyar indicated that Hungary would continue to purchase energy from Russia in the short term, while also aiming to diversify its supply sources. "Russia is still here, Hungary is still here. We will always seek the cheapest and safest oil sources", he said.

He expressed a desire to maintain friendly relations with neighboring countries, including Ukraine, and left open the possibility of meeting President Volodymyr Zelensky in the future.

With the Tisza party holding at least 138 out of 199 seats in parliament, Magyar will wield significant power, capable of changing laws and even the constitution, enabling him to reshape Hungary's domestic and foreign policy in the upcoming term.

By Thanh Danh (According to BBC, Kyiv Post, Euro News)