Lavrov seeks Hungary's support in war against Ukraine

He said this in an interview with the pro-government Hungarian newspaper Magyar Nemzet published on 7 July.

"Today Russia and Hungary openly speak in defence of their compatriots. We can join our efforts in this direction," Lavrov said.

Orban's government has long held a special position in the European Union towards Russia. Budapest opposes EU sanctions, continues energy co-operation with the Kremlin and blocks a number of key decisions, including aid to Ukraine.

In the interview, Lavrov praised Hungary for its "pragmatic course" despite "constant pressure from NATO and the EU."

Amid domestic political pressure and the growing popularity of opposition politician Péter Magyar and his TISZA party, Orbán has stepped up anti-European and anti-Ukrainian rhetoric. In particular, he announced his intention to block Ukraine's accession to the EUC.

According to the latest POLITICO Poll of Polls, the TISZA party is consistently ahead of Orbán's ruling coalition, which may explain the prime minister's attempts to mobilise his electorate through harsh statements and foreign policy initiatives.