Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban sharply rebuked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, urging him to stop pressuring Hungary.
Orban’s Warning to Zelensky
Viktor Orban, in a statement on September 27, emphasized Hungary’s role as a NATO and EU member, stating that Ukraine would have collapsed without their support. He urged Zelensky, “with all due respect,” to stop pressuring Hungary. Relations between the two countries have been strained for some time, with Budapest opposing Ukraine’s EU accession and maintaining ties with Moscow.
Ukraine Demands Sanctions Against Russia
One point of contention is the 19th sanctions package targeting Russian energy dependence. Zelensky criticized Hungary for not aligning with NATO allies, claiming the U.S. is ready to supply Europe with energy, eliminating the need for Russian resources. Orban argues that sanctions would disrupt Hungary’s energy security and burden its citizens.
Alleged Hungarian Drones in Ukraine
Zelensky accused Hungary of sending reconnaissance drones into Ukrainian airspace, possibly assessing industrial capacity near the border. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto dismissed the claim, calling Zelensky’s accusations a product of an “anti-Hungarian obsession.”
