Orbán Cabinet’s Pro-Ukrainian Stance: An Overlooked Case Study
Amid criticism, Hungary opens Ukrainian-language schools for refugee children
Hungary has been facing international criticism for its alleged “anti-Ukraine policy” since the start of the war. However, amidst all this, it is important to note that Hungary is the only European Union member state that has established and runs Ukrainian-language schools for refugee children living within its borders, according to an official from the foreign ministry.
At an international conference organized by the Hungarian Interchurch Aid, Levente Magyar, a representative of the Hungarian government, highlighted the country’s aid activities towards Ukraine. Magyar mentioned that Hungary immediately opened its border with Ukraine, recording 13 million crossings and welcoming tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees who have decided to stay in Hungary.
Furthermore, Magyar stated that the Hungarian foreign minister personally delivered aid shipments to Ukraine shortly after the Russian attack and assessed how Hungary could further assist. He noted that he has personally visited Ukraine twelve times, including four visits to Kyiv. Hungary has also provided medical aid to wounded soldiers and refugee children in the hundreds, as well as offering scholarships to study at Hungarian universities for one thousand Ukrainians each year.
Magyar expressed hope for a swift end to the war and emphasized that Hungary would continue to support Ukrainians in need, even after the conflict comes to an end.
Additionally, in response to a Kremlin comment on a temporary ceasefire proposal in Ukraine, Foreign Minister Peter highlighted Hungary’s support for peace efforts in the region. He mentioned that the election of Donald Trump as president had brought hope for peace to Central Europe, and that the president’s peace initiatives were highly appreciated. Peter emphasized the importance of first achieving a ceasefire and then proceeding to negotiations for lasting peace in the region.
Hungary remains committed to supporting Ukraine and facilitating peace efforts in the region, with hopes for a quick resolution to the conflict.
