Hungary’s New Prime Minister Sworn In and Drops Veto on EU Sanctions

Péter Magyar was sworn in as Hungary’s prime minister on Saturday under blue skies as crowds cheered the raising of the EU flag on the facade of the Hungarian parliament after a long absence. The event served as a visible marker of the change in leadership.

Magyar declared that Hungarians had given his party a mandate to launch “a new chapter” in the country’s history and to change the system. The new government, described as an experienced technocratic team, moved quickly to indicate its intended direction.

The foreign minister designate stated that Hungary’s place is in Europe, naturally, firmly and without question. Soon after the inauguration, Hungary dropped its long-standing veto over sanctions against violent Israeli settlers. The move is viewed as a signal that the country no longer seeks to remain outside the EU mainstream.

The new leadership has pledged to reverse years of democratic backsliding. Officials have indicated they must act quickly to implement reforms and restore the country’s relationship with the European Union.

The lifting of the veto represents one of the first concrete actions by the incoming government on an EU policy matter. Hungary had maintained the block for an extended period, positioning itself apart from the positions of most other member states.

The new prime minister’s swearing-in ceremony included the prominent display of the EU flag, which had been absent from the parliament building in recent years. The gesture aligned with statements emphasizing Hungary’s commitment to European institutions.