finance
France Condemns Hungary Over Leaked Call with Russian Foreign Minister on Ukraine EU Accession
France's foreign minister has accused Hungary of betraying EU solidarity following a leaked phone call in which Hungary's foreign minister appeared to offer sharing documents related to Ukraine's EU accession with Russia. The incident highlights tensions within the European Union regarding support for Ukraine.
Apr 9, 6:08 AM·2m read1 source
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France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has condemned a leaked phone call involving Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. In the call, Szijjártó appeared to offer to share documents about Ukraine's potential accession to the European Union with Russia's foreign minister. Barrot described the action as a betrayal of solidarity among EU member states.
The leaked conversation underscores ongoing divisions within the EU over its policy toward Ukraine, particularly in the context of Russia's invasion that began in February 2022. Ukraine applied for EU membership in February 2022, and accession talks officially opened in June 2024.
Hungary has frequently opposed or delayed EU decisions related to Ukraine, citing concerns over minority rights and bilateral relations.
Stance Hungary, under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has maintained closer ties with Russia compared to other EU countries.
This position has led to repeated vetoes or blocks on EU sanctions against Russia and aid packages for Ukraine. The leaked call adds to concerns about Hungary's alignment within the bloc, potentially complicating unified EU responses to the Ukraine conflict. The incident occurs amid broader geopolitical shifts.
Recent visits to Budapest by US Vice Presidential candidate JD Vance this week have drawn attention to Hungary's role as a point of interest for some US political figures. EU officials and member states continue to monitor Hungary's actions for their impact on collective security and enlargement policies.
accession process involves negotiations on reforms in areas such as rule of law, economy, and foreign policy alignment.
Sharing sensitive documents could undermine these efforts and expose internal EU deliberations. Affected parties include Ukraine, which seeks faster integration for security and economic benefits, and EU citizens who may face prolonged instability in Eastern Europe. Next steps may involve diplomatic discussions within the EU Council or formal complaints.
