Ukrainian President Zelenskiy meets with Hungarian PM Orban at Argentine inauguration, tensions rise ahead of crucial EU summit
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy and Hungarian PM Orban briefly meet amidst speculation over Ukraine's EU membership bid. Their encounter precedes an EU summit where the decision will be made.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban held a brief meeting during the inauguration of Argentine President Javier Milei on Sunday, according to video footage on the Argentine Senate's YouTube channel. The meeting took place amid speculation that the two leaders would use the opportunity to address their differences over Ukraine's bid for European Union membership.
President Zelenskyy does not shy away from talking to his “critics”, not even Orban.
— (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) December 10, 2023
This is something neither Putin the Coward nor his mindless minions will ever understand.#Ukraine #Argentina #Hungary pic.twitter.com/L1Oyh48Wa7
Although no details of their conversation were immediately available, the encounter lasted approximately 20 seconds as they mingled with other guests in the Argentine parliament. The timing of the meeting is significant, as it precedes an upcoming EU summit on December 14-15, where the decision to open membership talks with Ukraine is set to be made. However, Orban has been vocal in his opposition to commencing these talks, asserting that a unanimous decision among member states is required. Furthermore, Orban has also threatened to block the provision of 50 billion euros in budget support to Ukraine through 2027.
Despite this, a senior EU official stated on Friday that alternative means of financially supporting Ukraine would be explored, even if Hungary were to veto the move. Zelenskiy, on the other hand, made no immediate comment regarding the meeting with Orban. However, he emphasized his ongoing communication with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and their coordination on critical issues.
In a post on Telegram, Zelenskiy expressed his hope for a positive decision on the allocation of funds and the initiation of negotiations on Ukraine's EU accession. He stressed the importance of Europe standing firmly in defense of its values and unity, while relying on the support of President von der Leyen. As discussions at the EU summit draw closer, the outcome of this meeting between Zelenskiy and Orban adds intrigue to the ongoing negotiations surrounding Ukraine's EU membership application.
