EU Commission President boycotts Hungary’s solo actions: reaction to Orban’s controversial travel policy

reaction on Orban's Diplomacy: Von der Leyen imposes boycott measures

The recent solo actions of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in foreign policy have led to a decisive reaction from EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The top German politician has announced that in future no commissioners will attend informal ministerial meetings under the Hungarian EU Council Presidency, only high-ranking officials. In addition, the EU Commission will forego the traditional inaugural visit to Hungary.

Orban’s controversial trips

Von der Leyen's decision was reinforced by Viktor Orban's uncoordinated trip to Moscow, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to initiate a "peacekeeping mission" in the Ukraine conflict. This trip sparked strong criticism in the EU as Orban did not clearly represent the EU's official position. This was further compounded by his visits to Beijing and the US, which were also met with incomprehension. The European Commission repeatedly stressed that Orban was not acting on behalf of the EU, which led to tensions and resentment in relations.

Orban's solo actions have already led to Lithuania and Sweden deciding not to send ministers to meetings in Hungary for the time being. Other EU countries are also considering similar measures in response to Orban's uncoordinated approach. Brussels is even considering moving a planned informal meeting of EU foreign ministers from Budapest to Brussels.

Political consequences and the EU Parliament vote

Von der Leyen's decision comes just before the vote on her second term in the European Parliament. European parties have called on von der Leyen to take a tougher line on Hungary, which could be crucial for her re-election.

Orban's solo actions have strained EU-related relations and threatened the unity of member states. It remains to be seen how the situation will develop and what long-term impact Orban's solo diplomatic actions will have on the European Union.