A transcript of a conversation has been published that sheds light on just how close the ties between Budapest and Moscow are. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto offered personal help to Russian Minister Sergei Lavrov with the words: „If you ever personally need anything, just call me!“

The call, as the transcript shows, took place on 24 June 2023 - right during the mutiny of the Wagner mercenary group, when Moscow briefly looked unstable. Szijjarto expressed concern for Lavrov's safety and for Russia's stability. Lavrov just laughed and replied that he had full control.

The scene is telling. While most of the European Union was trying to isolate the Kremlin, the Hungarian minister was offering a personal favor to the man running Russian diplomacy. The transcript also mentions earlier examples of closeness - alleged help to Lavrov over lifting sanctions for an oligarch's sister, and joint criticism aimed at European politicians.

For the Balkans, which know the game of sitting on two chairs all too well, this is no surprise - it's confirmation. Hungary has for years presented itself as an EU member while keeping the line to Moscow open. The question that hangs in the air: how long can one family live in two houses before one of them asks for the bill?