By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Following parliamentary elections in Hungary on Sunday, April 12th, preliminary results indicate a decisive victory for opposition candidate Péter Magyar. This outcome has reportedly left the Kremlin dissatisfied, as Hungarian voters rejected the long-serving, pro-Kremlin incumbent Viktor Orbán, who was a key ally for Russian President Vladimir Putin. While Magyar advocates for strong European relations, his specific stance on Ukraine remains to be seen, and Russian media has already cited Dmitry Peskov stating that Hungary will now be considered an “unfriendly” nation, with no congratulatory message extended to the victor.
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It seems Russia has added Hungary to its list of “unfriendly countries,” and the timing of this decision is rather telling, coming right after Peter Magyar’s electoral success. This move, according to the Kremlin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov, is a direct consequence of Hungary’s perceived support for sanctions against Moscow. Peskov explicitly stated that Russia wouldn’t be congratulating the election winner, Peter Magyar, citing Hungary’s unfriendly status.
Interestingly, Peskov also clarified that the relationship between Vladimir Putin and Viktor Orbán was never a genuine friendship, but rather a pragmatic dialogue. This statement has led to a rather amusing observation: that Hungary’s friendly designation with Russia was apparently tied solely to one individual being in power. It’s as if the entire diplomatic relationship was contingent on a single person’s tenure.
For many, this shift in Russia’s stance is being interpreted as a positive development for Hungary. The sentiment expressed is that being labeled an “unfriendly country” by Russia is akin to receiving a badge of honor, a testament to Hungary doing something right. It’s seen as a validation of their independent direction, particularly if that direction diverges from Russian interests.
The idea that Hungary is now on Putin’s “naughty list” is being met with a good deal of amusement and even celebration. For those who view any setback for Putin as a positive for the wider world, Hungary’s new status is a cause for satisfaction. The criteria for being on Russia’s “friendly” list are humorously suggested to be rather unsavory, implying that exclusion from it is actually a sign of virtue.
There’s a palpable sense of pride among Hungarians following this news, with some defiantly stating “Fuck Putin!” and referencing historical moments like 1849 and 1956, suggesting a renewed sense of national identity and independence. The comparison to water being wet or a simple “Hungary 1 Russia 0” scoreline highlights the perceived simplicity and perhaps the inevitability of this diplomatic pivot.
The notion that Putin is upset about losing his “Orban asset” is frequently brought up, with some playfully referring to him as a “sad little Putin panda.” The hope is that with Orbán out of the picture, the European Union might now be more empowered to impose stronger sanctions on Russia. The warning for Hungary to “Stay away from buildings with windows” adds a dark, albeit jocular, undertone to the situation, referencing past incidents.
Many find these “unfriendly country” lists to be childish and embarrassing displays, rather than serious diplomatic tools. However, for Hungary, landing on this list is perceived by many as a significant achievement, a mark of distinction. It signifies that Hungary has made it onto a particular kind of international roster, one that signifies a break from a potentially problematic alliance.
The interpretation that Hungary has lost one “friend” but reconnected with “26 friends from the past” suggests a welcoming return to the broader European fold. These “friends” are depicted as those who supported Hungary’s development while also setting necessary boundaries during difficult times, and who maintained communication despite challenges. This is viewed as a definite “win” for Hungary, contributing to a brighter global outlook.
The practicality of maintaining a “friendly countries list” is questioned, with the suggestion that the reverse – an “unfriendly countries list” – is more indicative of current geopolitical realities. The phrase “Diplomacy just upgraded to blocklist mode” aptly captures this sentiment. Hungary is thanked for this development, and the company it now keeps on this “unfriendly” list is seen as a positive endorsement.
The comparison to Adam Sandler movies and the mention of polonium soup inject a dose of dark humor, highlighting the perceived dangers and political machinations involved. However, the overriding theme remains that being on this list is a “badge of honor,” a far more desirable position than being on a “Putin list of useful stooges.”
There’s a lingering sentiment that Putin will miss his “little mouse,” and the reason for Hungary’s previous friendly status with Russia is now crystal clear. This signifies a clear direction for Hungary moving forward. The feeling of “meddling in a country’s politics doesn’t pay off” is expressed with strong disapproval directed at Russia.
Ultimately, the designation of Hungary as an “unfriendly country” by Russia is being widely embraced as a “badge of honor” and a “List of Honor.” It’s seen as the best possible endorsement for Peter Magyar and a confirmation that Hungary is charting its own course, free from the influence of Moscow.