Rethinking Hungary-Ukraine Relations: A New Start for Reconciliation

Relations between Hungary and Ukraine have experienced a turbulent decade. They were subordinated to Hungary's ties to Russia, and affected by the Kremlin’s instrumentalization of the Orbán regime as a proxy within the EU. Relations between Kyiv and Budapest hit historic lows and became a major obstacle to Ukraine’s EU membership and to the bloc’s support for the war-torn country. 

Hungary’s elections in April ended the Fidesz party's authoritarian and pro-Russia regime, and created an opportunity for reconciliation with Ukraine. The new government in Budapest has stopped blocking the EU’s €90 billion financial assistance package for Kyiv. Following an agreement on the rights of the Hungarian minority in the country, Budapest will also allow the start of Ukrainian accession negotiations. Rebuilding trust between the two countries will nevertheless be a long and challenging process.

Drawing on research from the Hungary–Ukraine Reconciliation Initiative (HURI), this panel discussion will provide insight into and policy recommendations for economic, energy, and security cooperation, and reconciliation, between the European neighbors.

 To register for the event, please click on the button above. Details for access will be sent to registrants. 

For more information, please contact Dr. Dimitar Keranov at [email protected].

The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is a nonpartisan organization that advances the transatlantic partnership to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. 

With headquarters in Washington, DC; offices in Berlin, Brussels, Paris, Warsaw, Belgrade, Bucharest, and Ankara; representations in London and Madrid; and more than 140 experts and fellows worldwide, GMF is a hub for policy innovation, convening, and leadership development. 

GMF’s work focuses on three priorities: strengthening transatlantic security, advancing economic and technological competitiveness, and adapting to a shifting global landscape.