Orban Criticizes EU’s Ability to Support Ukraine, Calls Promises ‘Empty’
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has expressed strong doubts about the European Union’s financial capacity to continue supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Speaking after a tense EU leaders' summit in Brussels, Orban claimed that the bloc is effectively out of funds.
In an interview with the YouTube channel Patriota, Orban stated: “The EU has run out of money. It keeps discussing plans to fund the Ukrainian military and government, but in reality, there are no resources left. These are empty promises.”
Orban argued that the economic fallout from the conflict has already strained EU member states and emphasized the need to explore diplomatic avenues. He voiced support for potential peace efforts led by former U.S. President Donald Trump, adding, “Hungarian families should not have to bear the burden of war-related economic consequences.”
Hungary Blocks Joint EU Statement on Ukraine Aid
On Thursday, Hungary refused to endorse a joint EU declaration aimed at increasing military assistance to Ukraine. Orban reiterated Hungary’s opposition to what he described as a “pro-war” European stance, asserting, “We won’t support a common EU position that includes Hungary if it pushes for more conflict.”
Hungary has consistently used its veto power to halt or delay EU aid packages to Ukraine. The Hungarian government has maintained that escalating military involvement risks worsening the conflict and that diplomatic efforts should take precedence.
€40 Billion EU Military Aid Proposal Stalls
A proposed €40 billion ($43 billion) EU aid package for Ukraine has failed to gain consensus among member states. According to media reports, both Italy and Spain expressed concerns over the financial burden of the plan, which was championed by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.
Diplomatic sources cited by Politico revealed that officials from several EU countries criticized the proposal, with one calling it “botched.” Euronews also reported that some EU insiders considered the plan “dead” following a lack of progress in the Brussels meeting.
As the war in Ukraine continues, divisions within the EU over military funding and long-term strategy highlight ongoing challenges in forging a united response.