MEPs Alert on Russian Interference in Hungary's Upcoming Elections

• •MEPs warn of Russian manipulation in Hungary's elections set for April 12, 2026.
• •Allegations include disinformation campaigns and intimidation of journalists by the ruling party.
• •Urgent action is requested from the European Commission to ensure electoral integrity.

A group of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has raised alarms about potential Russian interference in Hungary's parliamentary elections scheduled for April 12, 2026. They have urged the European Commission to investigate allegations of disinformation campaigns, voter coercion, and intimidation of journalists linked to the ruling Fidesz party. The MEPs highlighted a report indicating that the Kremlin may have dispatched operatives to manipulate the elections, overseen by Sergei Kiriyenko, a senior aide to President Putin. Concerns also include unauthorized access attempts to opposition party IT systems and a campaign of intimidation against investigative journalist Szabolcs Panyi, who reported on these issues. The MEPs called for an urgent assessment of the electoral environment to ensure free and fair elections. The situation is exacerbated by leaked communications between Hungarian officials and Russian counterparts, indicating a troubling relationship between Hungary and Moscow. The MEPs' letter emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect democratic integrity in the EU.