Hungarian PM casts vote against Ukraine’s EU membership

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has officially cast his vote against Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU, marking a clear stance in a nationwide referendum.

The vote, which forms part of Hungary's ongoing political debate about Ukraine's EU membership, highlights Orbán's vocal opposition to the idea, Caliber.Az reports, citing Orban’s message on Facebook.

Orbán shared his position on Facebook, saying, “Brussels and the Tisza party support Ukraine's accession to the EU. This would destroy the Hungarian economy. Let's not allow them to decide our future over our heads! VOCS 2025. I have already voted.” 

In a show of support for his message, the prime minister posted a photo of himself holding his completed referendum ballot. 

The Hungarian government began mailing out the referendum ballots to citizens on April 14, and distribution will continue until the end of May. Voter participation in this referendum is expected to be significant, as the results will directly influence Hungary's position during consultations with European Union leaders regarding Ukraine’s potential membership.

Budapest's stance on Ukraine's EU membership is closely tied to the region's geopolitical tensions and Hungary's own foreign policy strategy. While the official statement of support from 2022 was aimed at strengthening peace, today, national interests and the fight for influence within the EU are the dominant factors in decision-making.

The Hungarian government argues that Ukraine's current statehood does not meet the criteria for EU integration. On the other hand, the EU seeks to include a country that "cannot sustain itself," which, according to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, creates additional financial and political burden for member states.

By Naila Huseynova