Much-Needed Discussion
Text: Ministry of Defence | Photo: Sztaniszláv Horváth | 10:31 October 15, 2026On October 14 in Budapest, Dr Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi, Minister of Defence, held discussions with Matthew Whitaker, the US Ambassador to NATO, on the situation in Europe, the most important tasks facing NATO, Hungary’s intentions within the Alliance, and how to increase defence spending to 5 per cent of the GDP.
“Today, the US Ambassador to NATO paid us a visit, and I welcomed him together with Minister István Kapitány,” Dr Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi posted on his social media page.
The Minister of Defence said: “During the meeting, we discussed the situation in Europe and the most important tasks facing NATO in a straightforward and honest manner. We reviewed Hungary’s intentions within the Alliance, the steps to be taken to kick-start the economy, and how we intend to increase defence spending to 5 per cent.”
“We were also keen to hear the views of our American partner: we asked for their opinion on the future of Europe, relations between the United States and Europe, and the relationship among the US, Russia and NATO,” emphasised Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi.
“It was a useful and much-needed discussion; in the current situation, this is exactly the sort of open dialogue we need,” said the minister.
