Viktor Orbán Criticizes EU Leadership: "A Seat at the Table Is Earned Through Strength"

Written by Asger Risom

Feb.13 - 2025 7:17 PM CET

World
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Hungarian PM Rejects Brussels' Approach to Ukraine War

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International negotiations are shaped by power, influence, and strategic alliances.

While some leaders rely on diplomacy and cooperation, others argue that real influence must be actively secured. As global powers maneuver to dictate the terms of peace and conflict resolution, divisions within alliances can weaken collective efforts.

The latest tensions between Hungary and the European Union highlight this ongoing struggle for relevance and authority.

Orbán Dismisses EU's Stance as "Worthless"

On Wednesday, foreign ministers from Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom issued the "Weimar Declaration," reaffirming their commitment to supporting Ukraine "until a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace" is achieved.

The statement underscored Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity as essential conditions for peace.

Following this, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas posted on social media platform X, stating that Europe must play a central role in negotiations concerning Ukraine and that the EU's priority is to "strengthen Ukraine and provide solid security guarantees."

However, Orbán dismissed these remarks, writing on X: "This statement is a sad testimony to Brussels' poor leadership. While President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin negotiate peace, EU officials issue worthless statements."

Hungary Stands Apart from the EU on Ukraine

Orbán further criticized the EU's approach, arguing that its continued military and financial support for Ukraine was "morally and politically unacceptable."

He stressed that influence in international negotiations is not something that is granted but rather "must be earned through strength, good leadership, and smart diplomacy."

His government remains the only one within the EU that has refused to support Ukraine against Russia and has maintained strained relations with Kyiv.

Ukraine Rejects Hungarian Accusations

Meanwhile, tensions between Hungary and Ukraine have escalated.

On Thursday, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry dismissed claims from Máté Kocsis, leader of Orbán’s ruling Fidesz party in parliament, who accused Kyiv of funding defamation campaigns against the Hungarian prime minister.

"Ukraine has not conducted and will never conduct any such campaign against its partners, including neighboring Hungary," the ministry said in a statement.

As reported by Digi24, the divisions between Hungary and its European allies continue to deepen as the war in Ukraine remains a major geopolitical challenge.