Lack of EU Response to Orbán's Actions May Encourage Pro-Russian Forces in Europe, Moldovan Expert Says

During an online roundtable hosted by Ukrinform, dedicated to the topic 'The Orbán Factor: Russian Influence on Hungary's Foreign Policy Towards Ukraine,' Moldovan expert Andriy Andriyevsky shared his insights, warning that the European Union's lack of an adequate response to the actions of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán could pose a significant threat to other nations in Europe. He pointed out that Orbán is setting a precedent within the EU, where countries can receive funding from the European Union while simultaneously disregarding its values and blocking its decisions.

Andriyevsky emphasized that if this model of behavior is not curtailed, it may spread to other countries with similar political regimes. 'The EU must understand that it cannot allow such (political) constructs to persist,' he stressed, highlighting the need for a change in the internal regulations of the European Union. The expert believes that the EU should analyze the practicality of making decisions by consensus in a situation where there are 'hostile elements' within its ranks.

Commenting on the upcoming parliamentary elections in Hungary, scheduled for April 12, Andriyevsky noted that this event is not solely a matter for the Hungarian people but also a test for all of Europe. 'Is Europe ready to tolerate the presence of a leader who is effectively embedded in the Kremlin's orbit?' he asked. The expert underscored that Orbán is entering the elections with a clear aim to hinder support for Ukraine, fracture the unity of the EU, and promote an agenda favorable to Moscow.

'Therefore, if after April 12, Orbán retains power without a serious response from the European Union, it will be a very dangerous signal for other 'problematic' political regimes within the EU. They will understand that the rules can be broken, and nothing will happen afterward,' Andriyevsky predicted, emphasizing the importance of the EU's reaction to the events in Hungary.

As reported by Ukrinform, Hungarian embassies and consular institutions have recorded a significant increase in the number of registrations for voting abroad in the parliamentary elections set for April 12. According to Hungarian media, nearly 91,000 citizens have registered to vote at the country's diplomatic missions abroad. This marks a substantial increase compared to four years ago when the number was just under 65,500, with slightly over 57,000 ultimately casting their votes.

Thus, the situation surrounding the Hungarian elections and Orbán's actions is becoming increasingly relevant for Europe, and its developments may have serious implications for the future of the EU and its unity.