Orbán breaks EU ranks and congratulates Putin on 'his re-election'
Hungarian Prime Minister congratulates Russian President Putin on re-election, despite EU criticism.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin on his recent re-election, despite the European Union’s criticism of the Russian presidential poll’s lack of democratic credibility and the oppressive political climate in Russia. The EU condemned the poll for taking place in a restricted political space with violations of civil and political rights, including the stifling of opposition voices and restricted access to information. Orbán’s gesture underscores Hungary’s commitment to close ties with Moscow, even as Western countries impose sanctions on Russia to deter its actions in Ukraine. The EU leaders, meanwhile, discussed increasing military support for Ukraine and enhancing defense capabilities to counter any potential Russian aggression. Orbán’s move was met with disapproval from EU officials, who emphasized the undemocratic nature of Putin’s re-election. Orbán’s past actions, such as delaying aid for Ukraine and NATO expansion, have led to concerns about his willingness to use his veto power to disrupt collective decisions within the EU.