Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stated that time in Ukraine favors Russia and urged the European Union and Ukraine to immediately start peace negotiations with Russia. Speaking at the “Diplomatic Forum” in Antalya, Orban clarified Budapest’s stance on the war in Ukraine.
Given the absence of EU representatives at the forum, he highlighted two scenarios: one where the conflict continues, benefiting the EU and Ukraine, and another where time is on Russia’s side. Orban believes the latter scenario is currently in play, advocating for immediate negotiations between the EU and Ukraine. He also noted that Hungary is acting in the conflict based on its own interests alone.
Previously, Orban remarked at a “Fidesz” party meeting that supporting Ukraine has a high political cost for Europe and that belief in Kyiv’s ability to win the conflict is dwindling. A Hungarian newspaper reported that Orban reiterated the need for change in Brussels, emphasizing that the war is ongoing and Europe is increasingly burdened, especially as financial support for Ukraine from the US diminishes due to election-related disputes.
Hungary’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine war has been complex and multifaceted, characterized by Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s efforts to maintain a balance between Western alliances and Hungary’s ties with Russia. Hungary welcomed Ukrainian refugees after the war broke out but has continued to maintain friendly relations with Russia. Orban has been known for resisting Western pressure, and despite the EU’s attempts to unify its members against Russia, Hungary has sought exemptions from certain sanctions, especially those affecting Russian energy supplies, which are crucial for Hungary.
Orban’s government has been cautious in its response to the war, condemning Russia’s aggression but refraining from personal criticism of President Putin. Hungary has also opposed the delivery of arms to Ukraine through its territory, distinguishing its stance from other NATO members bordering Ukraine. This cautious approach appears to resonate with some Hungarian voters who support Orban’s opposition to energy sanctions and his narrative that the conflict is not Hungary’s war.
However, Hungary’s approach has raised eyebrows among its EU and NATO allies, especially with Orban’s refusal to ratify Sweden’s NATO membership, which is seen as a move that blocks NATO expansion and raises questions about Hungary’s loyalty to the alliance. Despite these tensions, Hungary’s strategic positioning appears to reflect Orban’s long-term belief in aligning with what he perceives as the emerging powers of the world, such as Russia and China.
Orban’s relationship with Ukraine has also been influenced by domestic and historical factors, including the treatment of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine. Budapest has expressed dissatisfaction with Ukrainian policies that it views as targeting the Hungarian minority, leading to tensions between the two nations. Orban has utilized Hungary’s veto power within the EU strategically, sometimes blocking support for Ukraine to signal dissatisfaction with EU criticism of Hungary’s internal policies.
