Statement on Remarks by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Regarding Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán

Brussels, 05/03/2026 - We consider the remarks made today by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to be unacceptable.

Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv following a working meeting with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and members of the Ukrainian government, President Zelensky stated:

"We hope that in the European Union one person will not block the €90 billion (...). Otherwise, we will give this person's address to the armed forces, to our guys, let them call him and talk to him in their own language" .

Statements suggesting intimidation or threats of violence are incompatible with democratic principles and with the spirit of mutual respect that should guide relations between partners.

This is particularly concerning at a time when European Union Member States have already provided approximately €200 billion in support to Ukraine and when Ukraine is seeking additional financial assistance, including a proposed €90 billion loan. Such rhetoric is also difficult to reconcile with Ukraine’s aspiration to join the European Union.

These remarks are also concerning in light of the situation surrounding the Druzhba pipeline, which is vital for the energy security of two EU Member States, Slovakia and Hungary. The pipeline remains closed, and experts have not been allowed to conduct a fact-finding mission in Ukraine to evaluate its current status.

Political disagreements are a part of democratic debate. However, threats or suggestions of physical intimidation have no place in political discourse.