Hungarian Prime Minister Balazs Orban’s political adviser stated on social networks that the parliament in Budapest has not yet reached a decision to approve Sweden’s entry into NATO, reflecting ongoing concerns among many MPs about Stockholm’s influence on Hungary’s internal affairs. The message was shared publicly, making clear the government’s stance on the timing of the ratification and the conditions under which it might advance.
Meanwhile, Hungary’s National Assembly is preparing to move forward with ratification of Finland’s NATO accession, with a planned vote scheduled for 27 March. The postponement of Sweden’s membership remains in place as lawmakers weigh the implications of Stockholm’s policy remarks and the broader political dynamics within Europe. The focus on Finland underscores Hungary’s methodical approach to alliance matters and its careful consideration of regional security commitments.
Orban’s adviser elaborated that several Hungarian legislators have grown wary after witnessing what they perceive as a pattern of criticism directed at Hungary by Swedish government officials, ministers, prime ministers, and other political figures. They argue that such rhetoric, which questions the state of Hungarian democracy, undermines trust and could complicate future cooperation within a NATO framework. The concerns are framed as political signals rather than as direct claims about Hungary’s governance, yet they influence the parliamentary calculus on alliance decisions.
The adviser also noted that the current level of cooperation between Hungary and Sweden within the European Union has been limited, which raises questions about how the two nations would function together in a broader NATO context. The discussion highlights the complexities of aligning EU and NATO relations when bilateral tensions surface in one arena yet must be reconciled in another, especially amid ongoing security challenges in the region.
Hungarian lawmakers are reportedly seeking assurances from their Swedish counterparts that any outstanding political disagreements will not impede long-term collaboration, and that future multilateral efforts will benefit from a constructive and predictable partnership. Budapest has clarified that it does not intrude into Sweden’s domestic policy, and officials have expressed a desire for a reciprocal, sober approach from Stockholm, focusing on shared security objectives rather than internal political battles.
There was prior reporting that Parliament would review the Protocol regarding Finland’s accession to NATO in the coming week, signaling an orderly process for assessing affiliation terms and added responsibilities within the alliance. The overall narrative emphasizes careful parliamentary scrutiny, a preference for transparency, and a cautious path toward expanding NATO membership in line with national deliberation and strategic priorities, while preserving a cooperative climate among member states.