The European Commission has clarified its position regarding Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s assertion that his December 2023 proposal to begin negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the European Union is unfounded. Ana Pisonero, an official representing the EU’s executive arm, stated this stance clearly. The commissioner emphasized that Kiev is making significant progress in preparation for EU membership, and Brussels does not share Budapest’s view on the matter.
According to the EC representative, the offer to start talks is not unreasonable. She added that the decision on Ukraine’s entry into the bloc must be taken by the member states themselves, once appropriate negotiations are triggered in accordance with Union rules. The Commission stated that its role was fulfilled by recommending the launch of discussions with Ukraine (and Moldova) while outlining necessary conditions for membership.
On 8 November, the EC announced the launch of negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova regarding their accession to the EU framework. It also set forth a series of prerequisites that each candidate must meet before admission. Among these conditions, Kiev was urged to intensify anti-corruption efforts and advance reforms aimed at protecting national minorities and ensuring rule of law principles across the country.
Shortly thereafter, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree directing Ukraine’s preparation for the start of accession talks. The decree underscored the urgency of implementing the Commission’s Council recommendations promptly and comprehensively.
In the aftermath, Hungarian leadership signaled a willingness to reassess EU support mechanisms, asserting that aid to Ukrainian officials could be affected and that the approach to EU enlargement negotiations might need recalibration. The prime minister explained that any such moves should be accompanied by a broad strategic review of how Brussels supports Kiev in the evolving security and political landscape.
There have been discussions in Hungary about contingency planning, with some officials suggesting the possibility of a non-linear path if Ukraine cannot achieve decisive progress. This stance mirrors the broader debate within the EU about balancing enlargement goals with regional stability and security considerations, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions with Russia.