After Orbán’s defeat: Zelenskyy sees opening to reset ties with Hungary

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said there is now a “window of opportunity” to improve relations with Hungary following what he described as a strategic setback for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, and to unlock a €90 billion financing package for Ukraine.

In an interview with Fakty ICTV, Zelenskyy said the current political moment could help reset ties between Ukraine, Hungary and the European Union, arguing that the funding is essential for both Ukraine’s defence and wider European security.

“Ukraine needs this money to defend itself and the EU, including Hungary,” he said, adding that constructive dialogue could pave the way for progress on both bilateral relations and broader EU cooperation. He stressed Ukraine remained “ready” for engagement if all sides approached talks in good faith.

Zelenskyy linked the potential breakthrough to ongoing negotiations over energy infrastructure, including the “Druzhba” oil pipeline, which he said was expected to resume full operation by the end of April.

While reiterating his opposition to the purchase of Russian oil, he acknowledged Hungary’s current arrangements under an EU agreement extending until 2027, by which time alternative supply routes are expected to be developed.

“By the end of April, it will be working,” he said, adding that Ukraine would fulfil its commitments while expecting Hungary to “unblock” the €90 billion package and the EU to facilitate agreements with a new Hungarian government and other partners.

He also raised the issue of disputed financial assets, alleging that funds linked to Ukraine’s Oschadbank had been withheld. “They have taken some of our money there… we will talk with Madyar. I think it should be returned,” he said, adding, “Orban simply stole these funds.”

Commenting on Hungary’s domestic politics, Zelenskyy said Orbán’s approach had amounted to a strategic failure, arguing that politics based on “hatred” could yield short-term gains but was unsustainable in the long run.

He said he had repeatedly sought to maintain working relations with Budapest despite tensions, including public criticism campaigns directed at him during Orbán’s tenure.

By Aghakazim Guliyev