Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has stated that Ukraine’s immediate accession to the European Union (EU) is currently “unthinkable,” though he acknowledged the possibility of future membership. Speaking on a local radio broadcast, Orban emphasized that Ukraine’s entry into the EU would run counter to Hungary’s national interests, particularly in the agricultural sector.
Economic and Family Policies at the Core of Hungary’s Stance
Orban also outlined his government’s focus on economic policies centered on peace and family welfare. “It is indeed possible to organize economic policy on the basis of the politics of peace, and these are ambitious decisions that fundamentally help families,” he said. “The most important thing in the world is the family,” he added, stressing that all government measures are designed to support this principle.
The Prime Minister elaborated on his vision of a family-centered approach, stating, “Helping families stay together, ensuring that those with children are no worse off than those without, is a key principle around which we organize our policies.”
Concerns Over Ukraine’s EU Membership
Orban expressed strong opposition to Ukraine’s potential EU membership, citing significant risks to Hungary’s economy. “Ukraine’s accession would first of all lead to the destruction of Hungarian farming and the country’s agriculture in general, which would mean the collapse of Hungary’s entire national economy,” he warned.
While he acknowledged that historical circumstances could change, Orban maintained that Ukraine’s EU membership is not feasible at present. “Nobody knows how history will unfold. No one can know that, but one thing is certain: it is unthinkable at this moment,” he said.
The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating his stance, stating, “In terms of Hungarian interests, I cannot say anything in support of Ukraine’s joining the EU, but I can provide you with many arguments that speak against its accession right now.”
Orban’s comments highlight the ongoing tensions within the EU over Ukraine’s potential membership, as well as Hungary’s broader concerns about the economic and social implications of such a move.