Hungarian Opposition Accuses Russia of Election Interference
Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar has accused Moscow of attempting to disrupt the country’s 2026 parliamentary elections, asserting that Russian operatives are leveraging “disinformation campaigns, cyber operations, or intimidation” to manipulate voter behavior, reports 24brussels.
In an open letter released on Sunday, Magyar demanded “clear assurances” from Moscow that it would refrain from meddling in Hungary’s internal affairs through cyber tactics or intimidation directed at politicians and citizens. This assertion follows statements from Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), which alleged that the European Commission aims to orchestrate “regime change in Budapest,” with Magyar positioned as its favored candidate.
Recent polling indicates that Magyar’s Respect and Freedom (Tisza) party is leading Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party by approximately 10%. This shift in electoral favor comes as Orbán faces significant scrutiny, having maintained a close relationship with Moscow since 2010 and opposing European Union military assistance to Ukraine.
“The last Soviet soldier left our country in June 1991. Now their operatives are back – sometimes working undercover, sometimes openly,” Magyar stated in a Facebook post, prompting a call for an explanation from Russia’s ambassador regarding the SVR’s comments.
Orbán has countered these allegations by asserting that Brussels seeks to impose a “puppet government” in Hungary, framing the upcoming parliamentary election in spring as his most formidable challenge in nearly two decades as prime minister. As tensions rise, the election scenario suggests a critical confrontation between the ruling party and the opprobrium surrounding foreign influence in domestic politics.
