Prime Minister labels today’s union a toothless lion
Viktor Orbán Speaks Out on Ukraine’s Accession to the EU
Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary, recently gave an interview to the YouTube channel Patriot, where he discussed the ongoing war and Ukraine’s potential accession to the European Union. According to hirado.hu, during the interview, Orbán expressed his views on the current situation and the implications of Ukraine joining the EU.
Orbán highlighted the EU’s commitment to expanding NATO’s borders towards Russia, which he believes has led to the current conflict. He stated that Russia’s response to these actions was expected, as they were winning the war and setting conditions for NATO’s military forces not to enter Ukraine. He criticized the EU for lacking power and means in comparison to the United States, calling the Union a “toothless lion.”
Regarding Ukraine’s possible EU membership, Orbán mentioned that while EU leaders are eager to admit Ukraine quickly, there are sobering considerations to be made. He discussed the potential costs that countries, including Hungary, would have to bear if Ukraine were to join the EU. Orbán estimated that Hungarian families have already incurred significant losses due to changes in gas prices, market conditions, and sanctions on Russian exports.
Orbán also emphasized the financial burden that Ukraine’s EU membership would bring, including the costs of reconstructing Ukraine and supporting its economy. He pointed out that Hungarian farmers could suffer from reduced subsidies and increased competition if Ukraine were to join the EU. He expressed concerns about the indirect costs and impacts of Ukraine’s accession on Hungary’s economy and society.
In addition, Orbán highlighted Hungary’s stance on Ukraine’s EU membership, stating that the country is not alone in opposing it within the EU. He emphasized Hungary’s relationships with various countries, including the US, Russia, and China, as well as its efforts to cooperate with Central European states. Orbán reiterated Hungary’s preference for forming alliances and agreements on a case-by-case basis rather than seeking permanent allies within the EU.
As discussions continue within the EU about Ukraine’s accession, Orbán made it clear that Hungary’s position will be shaped by the ongoing referendum in the country. He expressed the importance of considering the Hungarian people’s opinion before taking a definitive stance on Ukraine’s EU membership. Orbán reiterated Hungary’s commitment to seeking global cooperation and avoiding isolation within the EU.
Overall, Orbán’s remarks shed light on the complexities and considerations surrounding Ukraine’s potential EU membership and Hungary’s role in shaping the debate within the European Union. The interview reflects the diverging perspectives and interests at play in the ongoing discussions on Ukraine’s future within the EU.
