Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has publicly criticized Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa for her support of Ukraine in the ongoing dispute regarding an EU loan. This disagreement highlights the complexities of European Union politics, particularly in relation to support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.
Orbán’s remarks came in response to a social media post by Siliņa, where she reminded Hungary of its commitment made during the European Council meeting in December. At that time, Hungary agreed to support a loan to Ukraine, which Siliņa emphasized should be honored.
In his response, Orbán asserted that Hungary’s actions are consistent with an agreement made with the EU in December 2025. He argued that Hungary’s support was contingent upon Ukraine fulfilling its obligations under the EU Association Agreement and not obstructing oil supplies from Russia to Hungary.
Orbán stated, “You are mistaken. Hungary acts according to the agreement with the EU, concluded in December 2025. We agreed to this arrangement because Ukraine was still fulfilling its obligations at that time.” He further criticized Siliņa for expecting Hungary to support the EU loan while claiming that Ukraine had unilaterally altered the agreed terms.
Additionally, Orbán suggested that instead of attacking him, Siliņa should engage directly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to restore the previously agreed conditions and lift the oil blockade affecting Hungary.
He expressed confusion over Latvia’s stance, questioning why a NATO ally and EU partner would side with Ukraine, which he claims is violating its commitments. Orbán defended Hungary’s position as legally justified, morally correct, and politically sensible.
In a related context, on March 19, Orbán declared that Hungary would not unblock any favorable decisions for Ukraine until Kyiv resumed oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó echoed this sentiment, indicating that Ukraine would be compelled to restore these supplies due to financial constraints. Furthermore, on March 25, Orbán announced a halt to gas supplies to Ukraine until the transit through Druzhba is reinstated.
The ongoing dispute between Hungary and Latvia over EU support for Ukraine underscores the intricate dynamics within European politics. Orbán's criticism of Siliņa reflects deeper tensions regarding commitments and obligations among EU member states amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.