Hungary to block Ukraine’s EU bid until it restores minority rights in Transcarpathia

Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has stated that his country will not allow Ukraine to move closer to joining the European Union (EU) until Kyiv restores the rights of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia.

“Ukrainians cannot take a single step forward regarding EU accession until they return the previously existing rights of the Hungarian national community in Transcarpathia,” the diplomat said, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

The minister noted that there is no pressure from Brussels that would force Hungary to abandon the protection of its compatriots in Transcarpathia.

He also called the statement by the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, saying that the community allegedly protects minority rights only within the EU and not outside it, “the rudest remark” and “a scandal.”

Tensions between Hungary and Ukraine over the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia have persisted for years, particularly since Ukraine passed a 2017 education law that mandated greater use of the Ukrainian language in schools. Hungary argues this law infringes on the rights of ethnic Hungarians to receive education in their native language, a claim Ukraine disputes, citing the need for national unity and language standardization.

In 2023, Hungary’s government repeatedly stated it would not support Ukraine’s integration into the EU or NATO until these concerns were addressed. Posts found on X from that period highlight Budapest’s position, with Szijjártó and other officials insisting that Kyiv resolve the issue of alleged “oppression” of the Hungarian minority.

The issue remains a sticking point in Ukraine’s EU aspirations, which require unanimous approval from all member states.

By Khagan Isayev