EU Ministers Clash Over Hungary's Diplomatic Moves and Ukraine Stance

Tensions are escalating within the European Union as member states grapple with Hungary's recent diplomatic activities. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's unauthorized trips to Russia and China, coupled with his contentious stance on the EU's role in Ukraine, have stirred significant unrest among EU leaders.

Orban has framed his travels as "peace missions," but EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell condemned them as "completely unacceptable." Borrell criticized Hungary for making statements that imply it represents the entire bloc without a mandate, particularly highlighting Hungary's comments at the United Nations, where it portrayed the EU as pro-war.

The situation reached a boiling point during a closed-door meeting of EU foreign ministers. Although no official conclusion was reached, the discussion was reportedly intense. Some ministers reiterated their positions without reaching a consensus. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský confirmed that the debate was heated, while Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski proposed a compromise.

Sikorski suggested relocating the upcoming informal gathering of foreign ministers, scheduled for next month in Budapest, to Ukraine. However, Hungary was the sole dissenting voice in the vote, blocking the proposal. Sikorski emphasized the need for member states to loyally support agreed-upon positions, referencing Article 24 of the EU Treaty. He reiterated the bloc's stance that Ukraine's borders should be internationally recognized and that Russia should not be rewarded for its aggression.

"The problem isn't just Orban's self-styled peace missions," Sikorski stated. "Hungary fundamentally opposes helping Ukraine and standing against Russia, which contradicts the EU's collective position."

As ministers await Borrell's official statement, the issue remains unresolved, highlighting the EU's internal divisions over foreign policy and member state conduct.