Hungary Says EU Lacks Readiness for Peace in Ukraine
LONDON — January 30, 2026
Hungary’s foreign minister said on Thursday that senior diplomats from several European Union countries have openly acknowledged that the bloc is not ready to pursue peace in Ukraine.
Szijjarto Criticizes EU Foreign Policy Direction
Speaking to Bloomberg after a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto sharply criticized the EU’s approach to the war. He said ideological rigidity now dominates decision-making in Brussels.
Szijjarto stated that, for the first time, multiple EU foreign ministers openly admitted during the meeting that the European Union is not prepared to seek peace in Ukraine.
Concerns Over Funding and Military Support
He warned that the EU’s current strategy poses serious risks. According to Szijjarto, the bloc continues to send weapons and spend public funds on the conflict rather than promoting a diplomatic solution.
He stressed that using European taxpayers’ money to prolong the war threatens both security and stability across the region.
Hungary Maintains Divergent Position
Hungary, under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, has consistently taken a different stance from most EU members on key issues, including the Ukraine war and migration policy. The government has repeatedly criticized the bloc’s foreign policy decisions.
Tensions Rise Between Hungary and Ukraine
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Orban accused Ukraine’s leadership of threatening Hungary and said his government would continue to defend national interests.
His comments followed a diplomatic dispute earlier this week. On Tuesday, Hungary’s Foreign Ministry summoned Ukraine’s ambassador, accusing Kyiv of attempting to interfere in Hungary’s domestic elections.
Zelenskyy Remarks Add to Diplomatic Strain
Relations between the two countries further deteriorated after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made remarks during his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos last week. Many observers viewed the comments as a direct reference to Orban.
Zelenskyy criticized leaders who benefit from European funding while undermining European interests. He also warned against allowing European capitals to fall under Russian influence.
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