As European leaders gear up for a crucial summit in London this Sunday, the populist leadership of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is openly contesting the EU’s cohesive stance on Ukraine. Their positions reflect a troubling alignment with sentiments that resonate with the Kremlin.
Orbán advocates for cease-fire negotiations
In a letter addressed to European Council President António Costa, dated Saturday, Orbán urged the EU to pursue direct cease-fire negotiations with Russia. This call mirrors initiatives previously taken by the United States under the Trump administration, indicating a significant shift in Hungary’s diplomatic approach.
Slovakia’s firm stance against Ukraine support
Slovakia is taking an even more hardline position. Following a contentious meeting between former President Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, Fico stated that Slovakia would not provide any financial or military support to Ukraine. He criticized the West’s strategy of “peace through strength” as impractical.
Furthermore, Fico insisted that any outcomes from the upcoming EU summit must stipulate that Ukraine restore Russian gas transit to Slovakia and Western Europe. This demand suggests a push towards reinstating European reliance on Moscow’s energy resources.
The assertions made by Orbán and Fico arrive at a pivotal moment when Europe is grappling with the ramifications of Trump’s recent interactions with Zelenskyy. While leaders from countries such as France and Germany continue to express their support for Kyiv, Orbán has notably aligned himself with Trump, commending the U.S. president’s advocacy for a “brave” peace deal.
This Sunday’s summit in London, hosted by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will serve as a critical test of whether EU leaders can maintain their fragile unity or if the tactics of Orbán and Fico will exacerbate internal divisions at a time when Ukraine faces increased uncertainty on the battlefield.