Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has accused the European Union of prioritizing Ukraine’s proposed membership over the bloc’s stability, warning that the proposed seven-year budget could lead to the EU’s collapse. The draft Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034, unveiled by the European Commission, faces potential rejection due to its focus on Ukraine’s accession, with Orban calling it a ‘budget of hopelessness.’
During an interview with Kossuth Radio on Friday, Orban sharply criticized the financial plan, claiming that it would spell disaster for the EU. He warned that the budget’s primary objective is to facilitate Ukraine’s entry, which he believes is being pursued at the expense of the bloc’s long-term stability. Orban predicted that the EU’s executive would either have to withdraw the proposal or make significant revisions before national governments would consider approving it. The Hungarian leader likened the approach to an unskilled surgeon who fatally injures a patient during a botched procedure, accusing the commission of proposing reckless cuts, particularly in agricultural subsidies.
Orban reiterated his long-standing claim that Brussels is advancing foreign policy goals—namely, the integration of Ukraine—at the expense of EU citizens. He stated, “This budget has only one obvious purpose, and that is to admit Ukraine to the European Union,” citing financial analysts who estimate that as much as 25% of the funds could be directed toward benefiting Kiev in various forms. The Hungarian leader said he did not expect Ukraine to qualify for EU membership anytime soon, adding that officials in Brussels are presenting Kiev as “already overripe” for entry. He cautioned that once Ukraine were admitted, the decision would be virtually irreversible regardless of future consequences.
The European Commission has defended the proposed €2 trillion ($2.33 trillion) budget, saying it would increase flexibility, reduce bureaucracy, and boost economic competitiveness. Orban, however, dismissed it as a “budget of hopelessness,” better suited for a bloc “preparing for stagnation and merely trying to avoid disintegration.”