Zelenskyy compares Orbán to Putin and calls on EU to adopt a plan B
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (flickr.com)
Ukraine needs an alternative plan for financial support from the EU due to blackmail by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who is acting in Russia’s interests, states Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to Politico.
Need for a Plan B
The head of state emphasized that Europe must develop a backup funding plan to avoid being dependent on Budapest’s position.
Zelenskyy stressed that delays in assistance are critical for Ukraine’s economy and defense sector.
"We and Europe, we all need this plan B. Our European partners and real friends, they know that we defend not only Ukrainian values, we are defending freedom of all Europe," the president said.
Accusations of blackmail and working for Russia
Zelenskyy openly criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for blocking sanctions against Russia and financial aid to Kyiv.
According to the president, the Hungarian leader’s actions are effectively playing into the Kremlin’s hands.
"He’s standing on the side of (the) Russian leader. He’s doing the same, blocking everything for Ukraine. Only one thing he doesn’t do today — he is not attacking by missiles or drones our territory," Zelenskyy said, adding that Orbán fully shares Russian propaganda narratives.
Dispute over the oil pipeline
In addition to financial issues, the parties have disagreements regarding the operation of the Druzhba oil pipeline. Hungary and Slovakia are demanding urgent repairs to the pipeline that delivers Russian oil and accuse Kyiv of delaying the process.
Ukraine, in turn, emphasizes that the damage to the facility is the result of Russian attacks.
Blocking EU aid
Viktor Orbán blocked a critical €90 billion loan, jeopardizing Ukraine’s financial stability. Because of these actions, Ukraine risks running out of EU funds in the near future.
The situation is further complicated by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who appears ready to take over Orbán’s "baton" in blocking initiatives in favor of Kyiv.
The European Commission stressed that the security of all Europe is at stake. Despite Budapest’s opposition, the EU is looking for legal mechanisms to ensure that Ukraine receives the €90 billion, bypassing Hungary’s veto.
