Hungary’s Orbán Delivers Blunt Message to Zelensky: Ukraine’s EU Membership Bid ‘Cannot Happen’
Orbán Rebuffs Zelensky on Ukraine’s EU Accession
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has issued a sharp retort to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, unequivocally stating that Ukraine’s path to European Union membership “cannot happen.” The strong declaration followed recent criticisms from Zelenskyy directed at Budapest during the Munich Security Conference, where he reportedly admonished Hungary for its perceived lack of military preparedness against Russia.
A Direct Challenge to Ukraine’s Aspirations
Taking to social media platform X, Orbán directly addressed President Zelenskyy’s advocacy for EU accession. “Dear Volodymyr Zelenskyy, thank you for yet another election speech in support of Ukraine joining the European Union. This helps Hungarians see the situation more clearly,” Orbán posted. He then clarified his position, asserting that the discussion transcends individual leaders. “However, you are wrong about some things: This discussion is not about you or me. This discussion is about the future of Hungary, Ukraine, and Europe. That is why you cannot become a member of the EU,” Orbán stated, signaling fundamental geopolitical and economic considerations guiding his stance.
Deepening Rift Over Corruption Concerns
This latest public exchange underscores a persistent pattern of contention between Hungarian and Ukrainian officials. Prime Minister Orbán has consistently expressed profound skepticism regarding Ukraine’s immediate readiness for EU integration, frequently highlighting what he terms “terrible corruption scandals” within the country. He has challenged claims suggesting Kyiv has undertaken “dramatic reforms” to combat systemic corruption, indicating a significant trust deficit.
“Golden Toilets” and Fiscal Priorities
Reinforcing his critical perspective on Ukrainian governance and resource allocation, Orbán has previously made pointed remarks about Hungary’s financial priorities. He once asserted that “Hungarian money should be spent on developing the country, not on the golden toilets of Ukrainian oligarchs,” a potent metaphor reflecting his long-standing concerns about alleged corruption and the misuse of funds in Ukraine, which he believes would be further exacerbated by EU membership.
