Hungary’s leader widens rift between Budapest and Brussels by visiting Putin and Xi amid Ukraine war
In recent years, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been at odds with the European Union over various issues, including immigration policies and democratic values. However, his recent actions have further widened the rift between Budapest and Brussels. Orban’s decision to visit Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns among EU leaders.
Orban’s visit to Moscow comes at a time when tensions between Russia and Ukraine are at an all-time high. The conflict, which began in 2014, has resulted in thousands of deaths and has caused a humanitarian crisis in the region. By meeting with Putin, Orban is sending a clear message that Hungary is willing to engage with Russia, despite the EU’s sanctions against the country.
Orban’s visit to Beijing is also significant, as it highlights Hungary’s growing ties with China. In recent years, Hungary has been increasingly reliant on Chinese investments, particularly in infrastructure projects. However, Orban’s close relationship with Xi Jinping has raised concerns about Hungary’s alignment with China’s authoritarian regime.
The EU has expressed its disapproval of Orban’s visits to Moscow and Beijing, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that “it is not acceptable for EU leaders to cozy up to autocrats while our own member states are under attack.” The EU has also warned Hungary that its actions could have consequences for its relationship with the bloc.
Orban’s actions have also drawn criticism from within Hungary, with opposition leaders accusing him of undermining the country’s national interests. Many Hungarians are concerned about the government’s close ties with Russia and China, fearing that it could compromise Hungary’s sovereignty and security.
Despite the backlash, Orban remains defiant, insisting that Hungary must pursue its own interests and not be dictated to by Brussels. He has defended his visits to Moscow and Beijing as necessary for Hungary’s economic development and security.
Orban’s actions have highlighted the growing divide between Eastern and Western Europe, with countries like Hungary increasingly looking towards Russia and China for economic and political partnerships. This shift has raised concerns among EU leaders about the bloc’s unity and solidarity in the face of external threats.
As Hungary continues to deepen its ties with Russia and China, the rift between Budapest and Brussels is likely to widen further. The EU will need to carefully navigate its relationship with Hungary, balancing the need for unity with respect for member states’ sovereignty.
In conclusion, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent visits to Moscow and Beijing have further strained the country’s relationship with the European Union. His actions have raised concerns about Hungary’s alignment with autocratic regimes and its commitment to EU values. As tensions continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how Hungary’s relationship with Brussels will evolve in the coming months.