French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to meet with Hungary's new Prime Minister Peter Magyar at the Élysée Palace to discuss critical European matters, particularly support for Ukraine and the ongoing sanctions against Russia. This meeting is significant as it marks Magyar's first major diplomatic engagement since taking office, following his victory over Viktor Orbán, who maintained close ties with Moscow. The French presidency highlighted that discussions will also cover European security, defence, and enhancing European competitiveness. Additionally, it aims to deepen bilateral relations between France and Hungary in strategic areas like nuclear energy and infrastructure. In a related development, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the release of over €16 billion in EU funds for Hungary, previously frozen under Orbán, contingent on the new government's commitment to reforms. Unlike Orbán, Magyar has publicly affirmed Ukraine's right to defend itself against Russian aggression and plans to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in June, indicating a significant shift in Hungary's foreign policy.