US ambassador criticizes Hungary for ignoring NATO's interests

US Ambassador to Hungary David Pressman has criticized the Hungarian government for ignoring the interests of its NATO allies and strengthening ties with Russia.

This was reported by Reuters.

Speaking to American companies that have invested in Hungary, Pressman said that the country is thriving as a member of the European Union and NATO, which allows for successful business here.

“Yet today, we are increasingly seeing an Ally that relies upon its NATO Allies, but feels comfortable disregarding the interests of those same Allies and our Alliance, including during a time of war in Europe," Pressman said.

He added that when Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban hugs Russian President Vladimir Putin and when his government threatens to delay much-needed EU aid to Ukraine, this disregard for NATO allies becomes apparent.

It is worth noting that Hungary has been a member of the North Atlantic Alliance since 1999.

Relations between Budapest and Washington are said to have deteriorated due to Hungary's delay in ratifying Sweden's accession to NATO, as well as Orban's warm ties with Moscow, despite the war in Ukraine.

Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 06/12/2023