Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made strong remarks about the EU’s continued support for Ukraine, stating that funding the country could ultimately destroy Europe.
This statement came after 26 out of 27 EU leaders signed a joint declaration pledging support to Ukraine.
Orban, however, chose not to sign the declaration, marking a significant divergence in his stance from the rest of the EU.
Orban’s Refusal to Sign EU Declaration
While the majority of European leaders supported the declaration to send military aid to Ukraine, Orban stood alone in opposition.
The move has sparked further debates within the EU about the long-term consequences of continued support for Ukraine, especially after the United States announced it would halt funding.
Poland Delays MiG-29 Fighter Jet Transfer
In a related development, Polish Prime Minister Andrzej Duda announced that Poland is not yet ready to send a squadron of MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine.
Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Duda emphasized that Poland’s position on military aid remains cautious and uncertain.
Meloni Calls for Stronger Security Solutions for Ukraine
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also voiced concerns about the nature of Europe’s military support to Ukraine.
She suggested that Ukraine requires more stable and long-term security solutions, beyond the deployment of European peacekeeping forces.
Meloni proposed that Ukraine be granted NATO security guarantees, even without full NATO membership.
EU Defense Faces Serious Challenges Without US Support
With the US withdrawing its support for Ukraine, European defense capabilities are facing serious challenges.
Reports indicate that Europe’s ammunition stockpiles would be depleted within days, and rearmament could take years.
As the EU scrambles to fill the gap left by the US, concerns about Russia’s ongoing threat continue to rise.
EU’s Support for Ukraine is Showing Signs of Crumbling
Despite the growing division among EU leaders on the matter, Ukrainian President Zelensky was still warmly welcomed during his recent visit.
European leaders exchanged handshakes and even kisses with him, although the underlying cracks in EU support for Ukraine are becoming more apparent.
A Closer Look at Viktor Orban’s Leadership
Viktor Orban, who has been Hungary’s Prime Minister since 2010, has had a long and influential political career.
Known for his leadership of the Fidesz party, Orban has been re-elected multiple times, with his latest term starting in 2022.
His tenure has been marked by significant changes in Hungary’s political landscape, including the country’s accession to NATO and its role in European affairs.
Orban’s resistance to the EU’s stance on Ukraine reflects his broader approach to international politics, often placing Hungary’s interests above those of the broader EU.