The conflict in Ukraine has exposed deepening rifts within the European Union, as Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz acknowledged significant disagreements with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban over how to manage the ongoing crisis. Scholz’s recent statements after an informal meeting of EU leaders in Budapest underscore the growing schism between member states that strongly support military aid to Ukraine and those, like Hungary, advocating for an alternative approach.

Speaking after the November 8 gathering of the European Political Community in Budapest, Scholz highlighted that while a majority of EU leaders are united in supporting Ukraine’s defense, others, particularly Hungary, remain skeptical. “I don’t want to hide the fact that there are different positions,” Scholz remarked, noting that Hungary’s approach contrasts sharply with that of many other EU members who prioritize robust support for Ukraine.

Scholz emphasized that Ukraine’s place in the European Union and its democratic principles are integral to EU values. He reaffirmed that EU member states must include Ukraine in any discussions concerning its future, invoking the phrase, “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” This principle reinforces Ukraine’s agency in determining the terms of any future settlement with Russia, aligning with the stance of most EU members, who view Ukraine as a crucial partner deserving of military and financial assistance.

Hungary, however, represented by Orban, continues to challenge this perspective. Unlike Scholz and other pro-Ukraine EU leaders, Orban has persistently criticized the bloc’s financial and military aid to Kyiv. He has also denounced Western sanctions on Russia as counterproductive, arguing that they have harmed European economies without achieving their intended purpose of halting Russian........

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