Main points
- Zelensky sharply criticized Orban for blocking sanctions against Russia and financial aid to Ukraine, saying that this played into the Kremlin's hands.
- The President called on the European Union to develop a “plan B” to support Ukraine in the event of further blocking by Hungary.
Zelensky criticized Orban / Photo Getty Images
Volodymyr Zelenskyy compared Viktor Orban's actions to Vladimir Putin's policies. The president said that the European Union needs to prepare a “plan B” in case Hungary continues to block decisions on supporting Ukraine.
At the same time, he acknowledged that Kyiv is under significant political pressure in international negotiations, Politico reports.
What statement did Zelensky make?
In his comment, Zelensky emphasized that Orban's position actually helps the Kremlin, as it creates obstacles to European assistance to Ukraine.
He openly criticized the Hungarian prime minister for blocking sanctions against Russia and financial aid to Kyiv. According to the president, the Hungarian leader's actions actually play into the Kremlin's hands.
“He stands on the side of the Russian leader. He does the same, blocking everything for Ukraine. There is only one thing he is not doing today – he is not attacking our territory with missiles or drones,” Zelensky noted, adding that Orban also fully shares Russian propaganda narratives.
According to the president, if one country continues to block joint decisions, the European Union must have an alternative mechanism for financing and supporting Kyiv.
We and Europe, we all need this Plan B. Our European partners and true friends know that we are not only defending Ukrainian values, we are defending the freedom of all of Europe,
– said the president.
He emphasized that without stable EU assistance, it will be much more difficult for Ukraine to resist Russian aggression, so European leaders must find a way to avoid political blockage.
Zelensky also noted that Ukraine is currently in a difficult diplomatic situation.
According to him, the pressure on Kyiv remains one of the strongest during the entire war, as the partners simultaneously expect progress on the front and political decisions regarding a future peaceful settlement.
The President emphasized that Ukraine seeks a just peace, but it is possible only if pressure on Russia is increased.
What is known about Ukrainian-Hungarian relations?
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Relations between Kyiv and Budapest have remained tense in recent times. Hungary has repeatedly blocked or slowed down EU decisions on aid to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. In addition, Prime Minister Viktor Orban has criticized the European Union's policy on the war and opposed certain initiatives in support of Kyiv.
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Earlier, the Hungarian side stated that Ukraine must resume the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba within three days. In addition, Budapest offered an alternative option – to allow Hungarian inspectors to the oil pipeline to check its technical condition.
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On March 5, 2026, Sberbank cashiers were detained in Hungary, who were transporting millions of dollars and euros and kilograms of gold. They were later released, but the valuables were seized. The incident may play into the hands of Prime Minister Orban before the elections in Hungary, as the aggravation of relations with Ukraine may be used in the domestic political struggle.