EU Boycotts Hungary's Council Presidency Over Orban's Unilateral Actions
The European Union is facing a significant internal conflict as Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban's recent actions have led to a boycott decision by the EU Commission. Orban’s unsanctioned visits to Russia, China, and the USA, which he labeled as a 'peace mission,' have stirred considerable resentment within the EU. The EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded by announcing that only high-ranking officials, instead of commissioners, will attend future informal ministerial meetings under Hungary’s EU Council Presidency.
Controversial 'Peace Mission' to Moscow, Beijing, and the US
Viktor Orban's journey, which included meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and former US President Donald Trump, was not coordinated with the EU and has been perceived as a solo action. Orban's visit to Moscow, in particular, was seen as a propaganda opportunity for the Kremlin, as he did not clearly represent the EU's stance on Ukraine. This move has caused significant damage and skepticism among EU member states, as noted by a spokesman at the Federal Press Conference in Berlin.
EU Ministers Consider Boycotting Budapest Meeting
In reaction to Orban's actions, several EU countries, including Lithuania and Sweden, announced they would temporarily refrain from sending ministers to meetings in Hungary. Sweden's EU Minister Jessika Roswall emphasized that the Hungarian approach is harmful and must have consequences. Other countries like Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Poland are also considering similar measures. The EU's chief diplomat, Josep Borrell, is contemplating relocating an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers from Budapest to Brussels, a decision that could be finalized soon.
The EU Commission's decision comes at a crucial time, just days before a vote on Ursula von der Leyen's second term in the European Parliament. This move is seen as an effort to take a tougher stance towards Hungary, a demand from various European party families such as the Social Democrats, Greens, and Liberals. Hungary's six-month presidency of the EU Council, which began on July 1, is now under scrutiny as the country continues to prepare meetings of ministers responsible for different areas.
- The European Union's internal discord over Viktor Orban's actions highlights the complexities of maintaining a unified stance among member states. Orban's criticism of sanctions against Russia and military aid to Ukraine, along with his opposition to Ukraine joining the EU, has further isolated Hungary within the bloc. Despite the ongoing war, Hungary has strengthened its ties with the Kremlin, citing economic interests, particularly in the energy sector, as a justification.
- Diplomats have indicated that boycotting the Budapest meeting would serve as a reprimand to Hungary for its unilateral actions. By potentially relocating the meeting to Brussels, the EU aims to prevent ministers from traveling to Hungary, thereby avoiding a direct political decision. This strategy underscores the EU's efforts to maintain cohesion and uphold its collective stance on international matters, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict.
