EU Leaders Back Ukraine Ahead of Alaska Talks, Hungary Excluded

Twenty-six member states of the European Union issued a statement expressing their strong support for Ukraine ahead of the upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Notably, Hungary did not participate in the joint statement, which underscores the ongoing divisions within the EU regarding Ukraine’s geopolitical situation.

The leaders of the EU emphasized their commitment to Ukraine during this critical juncture, stating that a lasting peace must respect international law and the territorial integrity of Ukraine. The statement specifically noted that “international borders must not be changed by force.” As tensions rise, the EU leaders acknowledged the significance of the Alaska summit, asserting that the path to peace cannot be determined without Ukraine’s involvement.

In the days leading up to the talks, EU leaders urged that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine be included in the discussions. The statement also called for any diplomatic solution to prioritize both Ukraine’s and Europe’s vital security interests. Furthermore, the EU expressed its readiness to provide additional political, financial, and military support to Ukraine for its defense, alongside demands for security guarantees for the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. The EU leaders reaffirmed their backing for Ukraine’s aspiration to join the European Union.

Hungary’s refusal to endorse the joint statement was a significant point of contention. The statement, drafted by EU Council President António Costa, received unanimous support from 26 EU leaders, with the exception of Hungary. The final note indicated, “Hungary does not associate itself with this Statement.”

Euronews has reached out to the Hungarian government for clarification on its position. According to a diplomatic source within the EU, Hungary was not convinced of the necessity to issue a united statement prior to the summit. Historically, Hungary has expressed skepticism towards EU initiatives advocating for military or financial assistance to Ukraine.

The government of Viktor Orbán has actively opposed Ukraine’s EU aspirations, citing concerns that Ukraine’s accession could pose an economic and security threat to Hungary and the broader European region. In a recent non-binding poll called Voks2025, over 95% of the respondents—amounting to more than 2 million people—indicated their opposition to Ukraine joining the EU, reflecting significant public sentiment against the idea.

As the Alaska summit approaches on March 10, 2024, the divide within the EU regarding Ukraine’s future remains a focal point of international diplomacy. The upcoming discussions between Trump and Putin will likely influence the ongoing conflict and the broader dynamics of European security. The EU’s commitment to Ukraine stands firm, even as Hungary continues to chart its own course amid rising tensions.