Ukrainian President's Statement on Hungarian Government Actions
During a private meeting with journalists, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the Hungarian government's actions, stating they are fostering anti-Ukrainian sentiment. He accused Hungary of blocking financial aid and sanctions packages, and highlighted the active involvement of Russian political technologists who are supporting Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the pre-election period.
Hungary's parliamentary elections are scheduled for April 12, 2024. Viktor Orban has been in power for 16 years. According to Zelenskyy, Hungary has blocked the 20th sanctions package against Russia, as well as a two-year support program for Ukraine. The President views this as evidence of a consistent policy by Hungarian leadership, which he says is constantly seeking pretexts for obstruction.
Disinformation Campaign and Ukraine-Hungary Relations
Zelenskyy also noted that the consulting agency Social Design Agency developed a disinformation campaign to support Orban, with the primary aim of discrediting opposition politician Péter Márki-Zay. 'When such relations between neighbors are artificially created, there is nothing good in it,' he remarked, emphasizing that Ukraine does not spread hatred towards the Hungarian people.
The President stated that 'at the leadership level, they have blocked almost all packages.' He also drew attention to the fact that Russian political technologists are assisting the Hungarian government in the electoral process. 'This is both an internal Hungarian issue and a matter for the European Union,' Zelenskyy added, pointing to the need for a response from EU society and leadership. This comes at a time when European unity on support for Ukraine is under strain from various political pressures.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed readiness to cooperate with any Hungarian leadership that seeks to work with Ukraine and does not support Russian aggression. 'We are ready to work in a friendly manner if this person is not an ally of Putin, specifically the aggressor state,' he concluded.
The Ukrainian President's comments highlight a significant deterioration in relations between Ukraine and Hungary, particularly against the backdrop of the upcoming Hungarian elections. With the blocking of sanctions and financial aid, the issue of cooperation between the two countries becomes even more pressing. In this context, it is crucial to observe the reaction of the European Union and the internal political processes in Hungary, which could substantially influence the future development of bilateral relations.