Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has criticized Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, stating that he has "lost his sense of reality" if he believes he can dictate Ukraine's EU membership.
The EU granted Ukraine candidate status in 2022 with a target of 2030 for membership. However, Hungary has consistently opposed the move, citing concerns over escalating tensions with Russia and the financial burden on EU taxpayers for military aid. Zelensky recently accused Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban of using Ukraine’s EU aspirations to bolster his own electoral prospects.
Szijjarto dismissed Zelensky’s claims, explaining that EU membership is decided by current member states, and any new entrant requires unanimous approval. He added that a recent Hungarian referendum showed overwhelming opposition to Ukraine’s bid, with 95% rejecting the idea.
Hungary’s stance is shared by other European leaders, with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Polish officials also expressing objections. Recent polls show declining public support for Ukraine's EU membership in countries like Poland, the Czech Republic, France, and Austria.
The EU granted Ukraine candidate status in 2022 with a target of 2030 for membership. However, Hungary has consistently opposed the move, citing concerns over escalating tensions with Russia and the financial burden on EU taxpayers for military aid. Zelensky recently accused Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban of using Ukraine’s EU aspirations to bolster his own electoral prospects.
Szijjarto dismissed Zelensky’s claims, explaining that EU membership is decided by current member states, and any new entrant requires unanimous approval. He added that a recent Hungarian referendum showed overwhelming opposition to Ukraine’s bid, with 95% rejecting the idea.
Hungary’s stance is shared by other European leaders, with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Polish officials also expressing objections. Recent polls show declining public support for Ukraine's EU membership in countries like Poland, the Czech Republic, France, and Austria.
