InfoHub Logo

The European Commission has strongly condemned recent remarks made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky towards Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, stating that such rhetoric is unacceptable and should not be directed at EU member states.

Brussels Issues Stern Rebuke

Olof Gill, a spokesperson for the European Commission, addressed the issue in Brussels on March 6th. He emphasized that threats and aggressive language have no place in discussions involving EU member nations. "This kind of language is unacceptable. There should be no threats directed at any EU member states," Gill stated.

Gill further highlighted the Commission's current objective: to de-escalate tensions between parties. "Our goal is to call for calm, soften the rhetoric, and work towards common objectives," he added.

Hungarian Opposition Demands Clarification

In Hungary, Péter Magyar, a leading figure in an opposition party and a Member of the European Parliament, has demanded an explanation from the Ukrainian president. "No foreign leader can threaten any Hungarian," Magyar declared.

Magyar also raised concerns about Hungary's energy security, specifically calling for the resumption of oil transit through the 'Druzhba' pipeline. He suggested that until Zelensky clarifies his statement and apologizes to Budapest, relations with Ukraine should be suspended.

Zelensky's Original Statement

Zelensky's controversial comments were made in response to perceived blockades of financial aid to Kyiv. He stated that if a European politician continued to obstruct the latest EU financial aid package, Ukraine would provide the soldier's address to the Ukrainian armed forces. "We hope that no one in Europe will block the 90 billion euros, or the first tranche of 90 billion, otherwise our soldiers will have weapons. Otherwise, we will give this person's address to our Armed Forces... they will speak with him in their language and establish contact," Zelensky said, emphasizing Ukraine's lack of alternatives without this funding.

The EU Loan Dispute

Hungary has been blocking the European Union's financial aid package to Ukraine since February 20th. This package includes a loan of 90 billion euros, with approximately 60 billion euros earmarked for Kyiv's defense needs.

Budapest has cited issues with Russian oil supplies as the reason for its stance. Hungarian authorities claim that oil transit to the country has been halted following a Russian strike on the 'Druzhba' oil pipeline, which passes through Ukrainian territory.

Kyiv has previously stated that Russian oil has no place in the European market. Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Péter Szijjártó has reiterated that Budapest will not change its position until oil transit through the 'Druzhba' pipeline is restored.