Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar has confirmed that an investigation is underway into former Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó’s relationship with Russia, while also announcing new public safety measures for Budapest and providing updates on major transport and energy projects.
Speaking at the government’s weekly press briefing on Thursday, Magyar touched on several of the country’s most closely watched political and economic issues.
Investigation launched into Szijjártó’s Russia ties
Magyar confirmed that authorities are examining Szijjártó’s relationship with Russia, an issue he previously described as potentially amounting to “treason.” However, the prime minister declined to reveal further details, saying the investigation involves classified documents and sensitive diplomatic material.
“I do not want to prejudge the process,” Magyar said, adding that the government will publish information once it can do so without affecting the investigation.
No successor discussed yet for President Sulyok
Asked about the possible removal of President Tamás Sulyok if he does not sign the recently adopted 17th Amendment to Hungary’s Fundamental Law, Magyar said the government would wait patiently for the president’s decision.
He said he does not expect Sulyok to challenge the constitutional amendment that could ultimately lead to his removal. Magyar also stressed that discussions about a possible successor would only begin after the constitutional amendment has been signed and officially published. According to the prime minister, it would be neither respectful nor appropriate to discuss replacement candidates before that process is completed.
Government still consulting on guest worker restrictions
Magyar also said consultations continue with professional organisations over the government’s planned guest worker restrictions. While detailed legislation has not yet been finalised, he said the government’s objective remains to protect Hungarian employees from being replaced by lower-paid foreign workers willing to accept poorer working conditions.
Budapest police presence to increase for 30 days
Responding to growing concerns about public safety in the capital, Magyar announced a one-month operation to increase police visibility across Budapest. The reinforced presence will involve officers from the Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK), the Rapid Response Police and volunteer civil guards.
Patrols will focus primarily on busy city-centre areas, entertainment districts and the Rákosrendező neighbourhood. The prime minister noted that many public safety issues are linked to homelessness and addiction rather than traditional crime alone, adding that social workers will also participate so vulnerable people receive support instead of purely law enforcement measures.
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Fuel prices remain under control: for now
Magyar dismissed opposition claims that petrol prices have exceeded the government’s protected price level nationwide, calling such reports “a huge lie.” He said only a handful of filling stations currently charge higher prices and that there are no supply shortages.
According to Magyar, energy company MOL has assured the government that current fuel prices remain sustainable despite rising wholesale costs. However, he added that Economy and Energy Minister István Kapitány would intervene if prices increase significantly.
Government says Szijjártó’s BYD move will not affect relations
Asked about Szijjártó’s recent decision to join Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, Magyar said he has his own opinion on the appointment but insisted it would not influence relations between the government and the company.
He noted that BYD has received around HUF 300 billion in state support through various programmes and said companies meeting their investment commitments and paying taxes remain welcome in Hungary.
Rail investment set to accelerate
Magyar also signalled major developments in Hungary’s railway sector. He praised Transport and Investment Minister Dávid Vitézy, saying the country now has leadership in transport policy “not seen for many years.” According to the prime minister, the release of EU funding will allow large-scale railway procurement projects to begin over the next three years, with Vitézy expected to reveal further details next week.
Budapest–Belgrade railway nearing passenger launch
Finally, Magyar expressed optimism that passenger services on the long-awaited Budapest–Belgrade railway could begin within one or two months. He said Vitézy is currently holding talks with Serbian counterparts to finalise the remaining issues before operations begin.
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