Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
The latest remarks, delivered in a wide-ranging interview, come as European governments struggle to keep financial commitments on track.
Should the European nations continue to support Ukraine against the Russian invasion?
According to Hungary’s Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, the answer is no — simply because Ukraine has “no chance” of winning anyway.
In an interview on the MD MEETS podcast, Orbán claimed that ongoing EU backing for Ukraine is draining the bloc’s economic strength.
According to him, the bloc has spent 185 billion euros so far, and the financial burden of continuous support for Ukraine is “killing” the European Union.
The ongoing clashes between Orbán and the EU
Orbán, who is known for his Kremlin-friendly stance, has repeatedly blocked EU initiatives aimed at putting additional pressure on Russia’s war finances.
In June 2025, Hungary and Slovakia decided not to support the EU’s 18th sanctions package targeting Russian energy imports.
Both Slovakia and Hungary remain dependent on Russian oil and gas and have maintained warm ties with Moscow, while other EU members have significantly reduced their reliance on Russian energy.
Are Europe’s leaders even interested in peace?
Orbán accused European leaders of actively extending the conflict in the hope of gaining leverage in eventual peace talks.
In his view, Moscow currently holds the advantage, and he urged the EU to push for a rapid halt to hostilities.
“The situation and the timing are more favorable to the Russians than to us. Don’t continue; stop it as soon as possible,” he argued.
He said he expects any path to a settlement to hinge on direct talks between Washington and Moscow covering “the war and other issues, trade, world trade, energy and other aspects.”
Security visions
Orbán suggested that any post-war arrangement should include a border agreement — “whether they are internationally recognized or not” — along with “some kind of demilitarized zone.”
Unless a “miracle” takes place, he predicted that Russia will continue to hold Donetsk after the war. “This is the reality, whether you like it or not,” he said.
Despite that assessment, Orbán dismissed warnings that Russia could target another EU or NATO member once the conflict ends.
“I think it’s ridiculous to say that the Russians will attack the European Union or NATO simply because they are not strong enough. We are much stronger,” he said.
Sources: POLITICO, MD MEETS
This article is made and published by Jens Asbjørn Bogen, who may have used AI in the preparation
