Budapest has received a temporary exemption from paying the solidarity contribution until mid-June, giving the capital time to negotiate a longer-term financial arrangement with Hungary’s incoming government.

Electric vehicle sales in Europe surged nearly 30 per cent in the first quarter of 2026 as soaring petrol prices linked to the Iran war pushed drivers toward alternatives to combustion-engine cars.

Hungary’s incoming prime minister Péter Magyar said he has begun high-level talks with European Commission leaders aimed at unlocking frozen EU funds and reaching a broader political agreement with Brussels.

Hungary said it could lift its block on the 90 billion euro EU loan package if Ukraine restores oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline, as Budapest maintained its position linking energy transit to financial support.

Hungary’s incoming government will temporarily maintain fuel price caps and retail margin limits introduced by the previous administration, signalling a cautious approach to economic transition amid ongoing energy market uncertainty.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán acknowledged a clear electoral defeat and called for a full renewal of the country’s right-wing political community, signalling the end of an era and the need for major changes within Fidesz.

Skrillex will headline the closing day of Sziget Festival 2026, joining a star-studded line-up that includes Florence + the Machine, Twenty One Pilots and Lewis Capaldi.

Hungary’s National Film Institute has paused new long-term financial commitments amid the government transition, as the future of its leadership remains uncertain despite continued growth in the country’s booming film industry.

Hungarian financial markets responded positively to the election result, with the forint strengthening and investor sentiment improving. However, rising geopolitical tensions linked to Iran and energy prices continue to pose risks, as policymakers and experts highlight the potential stabilizing role of euro adoption.

The European Commission is set to launch an age verification app aimed at limiting children’s access to social media, as European countries intensify efforts to improve online safety.