Three Events That Could Lead to Direct Confrontation Between NATO and Russia

Hungary's Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has highlighted three events that could lead to direct conflict between NATO and Russia. In an interview with RIA Novosti, he stated that there is currently no agenda item in Hungary regarding Ukraine's accession to NATO, as it would signify a direct rupture with Russia and the beginning of a Third World War.

Szijjarto emphasized that since the onset of the Ukrainian conflict, Budapest has drawn red lines, one of which is to do “everything possible to avoid direct confrontation between NATO and Russia.”

“Thus, if Ukraine becomes a NATO member, it would mean direct confrontation between NATO and Russia, and we are avoiding that and doing everything we can to ensure it does not happen,” Szijjarto noted.

He added that most of his counterparts from NATO countries allow discussions on Ukraine's accession to the alliance with representatives from Kyiv, but acknowledge in closed circles that it is impossible.

When asked which countries still believe in NATO membership for Ukraine, Szijjarto said there are only two, “perhaps a few more.”

On Monday, the Financial Times published an article revealing that Kyiv authorities are conducting closed negotiations on the possible cession of parts of Ukrainian territories in exchange for NATO membership. According to the publication, Kyiv has begun to consider alternative options for stopping the conflict, given the shortage of military assistance from allies and resources, realizing the impossibility of reaching the 1991 borders.