Zelenski and Orban's "very direct" exchange raises EU Summit tensions
President Volodymyr Zelenski of Ukraine revealed a tense verbal exchange with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban during the inauguration ceremony of Argentine President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires on Sunday.
The meeting between the two leaders occurred ahead of a crucial EU summit on December 14-15, set to determine Ukraine's prospects for European Union accession.
Zelenski described the exchange as "very sincere" and centred around European issues, as reported by EFE and Reuters. The discussions took place in the backdrop of Orban's threat to block additional European Union support for Kyiv. Simultaneously, he opposes opening negotiations with Ukraine for EU membership.
The White House has increased pressure for aid to Kyiv after Republicans blocked emergency spending legislation for Russia's war in Ukraine. Orban's press secretary, Bertalan Havasi, confirmed the meeting, noting Orban's stance on EU accession discussions, stating that EU member states are continually discussing the matter.
A video from the Argentine Senate's YouTube channel captured Zelenski and Orban engaging in a 20-second exchange without interpreters or advisors, sparking curiosity and speculation about the conversation's content. Orban has consistently opposed talks with Ukraine, citing Ukraine's unpreparedness and alleging discrimination against the Hungarian minority.
Kyiv recently amended its Minority Law to align with EU recommendations. Ukraine engaged in high-level talks with Orban's government to persuade a shift in position at the upcoming European Council meeting.
Orban also threatened to block efforts to provide €50 billion ($53.80 billion) in EU budget support to Ukraine until 2027. A senior official mentioned that the EU would find ways to financially assist Ukraine even if Hungary resorts to a veto.
Orban, a vocal critic of Ukraine, called for an end to military aid to Kyiv and has advocated for negotiations with Russia since the conflict's inception. Notably, he is the only major European leader who has yet to meet with Zelenski.
In addition to Ukraine, this week's EU summit will decide on the accession prospects of Moldova, Georgia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
