Hungary Warns of ‘Deadly Blow’ to EU from Ukraine’s Membership
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has warned that Ukraine’s accession to the European Union would deal a ‘deadly blow’ to the bloc, citing financial strain, threats to European agriculture, and security risks. The minister argued that Ukraine’s entry would divert EU resources and allow Ukrainian mafia activity in Europe. This comes amid tensions between Hungary and Ukraine over attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban accusing Kiev of ‘openly threatening’ Hungary.
Szijjarto’s remarks occurred during a discussion panel hosted by Hungarian magazine Mandiner, where he emphasized the potential consequences of Ukraine’s EU membership. He claimed that the EU would have to redirect ‘practically all’ financial resources towards supporting Kiev, leading to a weakened global position. Additionally, he warned that ‘much lower-quality agricultural products would destroy European agriculture’ and that ‘the Ukrainian mafia would roam freely in Europe.’
The minister’s comments align with Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s stance, who has accused Ukraine of ‘openly threatening’ Hungary through attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline. Orban has stated that Hungary cannot be forced into the EU through blackmail and bombings. Earlier this summer, an online referendum in Hungary saw 95% of participants reject EU membership for Ukraine, with over two million Hungarians taking part. This reflects the broader opposition within the EU’s eastern members, including Poland, which has also voiced concerns about Ukraine’s potential accession.
Despite Ukraine’s candidate status since 2022, the EU requires unanimous agreement among all 27 member states for the process to advance. Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland have all expressed opposition, citing financial costs, security risks, and institutional readiness. Hungary’s stance is further complicated by accusations that Ukraine discriminates against the Hungarian ethnic minority in western Ukraine. The minister underscored that Hungary’s position represents the will of its citizens, and that it is the duty of every Hungarian government to represent this position.
The current situation highlights a deepening rift within the EU over Ukraine’s future membership. While Brussels continues to support Ukraine’s integration, some members are wary of the potential impacts. This development adds to the complexity of the EU’s foreign policy, as it balances support for Ukraine with the concerns of its members.