EU Commission reacts to Orban’s solo actions in Ukraine policy

The impact of Orban’s solo actions on the EU

The recent actions of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban have led to a serious step by the EU Commission. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced that future informal ministerial meetings under the Hungarian EU Council Presidency will be cancelled due to Orban’s solo actions in the Ukraine policy without Commissioners, but only with high-ranking officials. In addition, the traditional inaugural visit to the Hungarian Presidency will be dispensed with. This step shows the determination to strengthen the alliance and the common position of the European Union.

Orban’s latest diplomatic trip

One reason for von der Leyen's decision was Orban's uncoordinated trip to Moscow, where he met Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin. This "peace mission" was later followed by further meetings in Beijing with Xi Jinping and in the US with Donald Trump. These unauthorized diplomatic activities have sparked discontent in the EU, especially because the Kremlin used Orban's visit to Moscow for its propaganda purposes. In addition, Orban has not clearly represented the EU's position on Ukraine policy, which has led to confusion and criticism.

The European Commission and the Foreign Office have stressed that Orban is not acting on behalf of the EU. Criticism of Orban's unilateral actions has been voiced from various EU countries. Lithuania and Sweden have already reacted and announced that they will not send ministers to meetings in Hungary for the time being. Other countries such as Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland are considering similar measures to address Orban's actions.

European reactions and diplomatic consequences

The debate in Brussels on moving an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers from Budapest to Brussels is still pending. A final decision may be taken by EU chief diplomat Josep Borrell. The EU Commission's latest action came just before the vote on von der Leyen's second term in the European Parliament. European parties such as the Social Democrats, Greens and Liberals pushed for a tougher stance towards Hungary.

Orban's solo actions could have long-term effects on diplomatic relations within the EU. It remains to be seen how relations between Hungary and the other EU member states will develop and how this will affect further cooperation within the Union.