Magyar Returns from Brussels: EU Funds Political Deal Targeted for Late May

Péter Magyar addressed press in Brussels on April 30, 2026 following the previous day's meetings with von der Leyen and Costa, confirming that Hungary's incoming government has set a target of late May — the week of May 25 — to conclude the formal political agreement needed to unlock approximately €17 billion in frozen EU funds. Magyar emphasized that the timeline is driven by the critical August 31 deadline for the €10.4 billion Recovery and Resilience Facility tranche, which must be disbursed or permanently lost. Magyar outlined the main reform pillars Hungary must deliver: joining the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), restoring full judicial independence, enacting a new anti-corruption law, reforming state media, and ensuring transparent public procurement. He described the Brussels meetings as 'a completely different atmosphere' compared to Orbán-era confrontations, noting that EU officials expressed 'genuine enthusiasm' at Hungary's willingness to comply with the bloc's standards. Magyar is expected to submit Hungary's formal EPPO membership application within weeks of taking office on May 9.