**Hungary’s Opposition Leader Calls for Referendum on Ukraine’s EU Accession**
In a move that could potentially shake up Hungary’s stance on Ukraine’s European Union membership, opposition leader Peter Magyar has pledged to hold a referendum on the issue if he is elected in 2026. Magyar made this promise while vowing to restore Hungary’s credibility within NATO and the EU.
According to Reuters, Magyar plans to initiate a binding referendum once the exact conditions of Ukraine’s entry into the EU become clear. This move comes as a direct challenge to Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has been widely criticized for being Moscow-friendly during Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Orban has repeatedly blocked or delayed EU aid packages for Kyiv and has warned that Ukraine’s membership in the bloc would “destroy” Hungary. In contrast, Magyar has positioned himself as a strong supporter of Ukraine’s EU bid, promising to reset Hungary’s foreign relations and end what he calls the government‘s isolation from the West.
**Most Hungarians Support Ukraine’s EU Accession**
A recent poll by the Republikon Institute found that a narrow majority of Hungarians support Ukraine’s accession to the EU. However, Orban’s government plans to carry out its own national consultation on the issue, which critics have dubbed as biased and aimed at getting a specific answer.
These non-binding opinion surveys have become a hallmark of Orban’s administration, with previous consultations often criticized for their low turnout and leading questions designed to elicit a desired response. For example, a 2023 consultation on migration asked voters whether they supported Brussels‘ alleged plan to create “migrant ghettos” in Hungary. Despite less than 20% participation, an astonishing 99% of respondents voted “no”.
**Magyar’s Promises to Reset Hungary’s Foreign Relations**
In contrast to Orban’s policies, Magyar has promised to restore Hungary’s credibility within NATO and the EU. He has also vowed to make Hungary a proud and reliable NATO ally and a fully-fledged member of the EU.
Magyar has already taken steps towards this goal by visiting Kyiv in 2024 and raising funds for humanitarian aid to Ukraine. His party contributed around $41,000 for humanitarian assistance.
**Hungary’s Veto Power on Ukraine’s EU Accession**
As an EU member, Hungary holds veto power over further steps in the accession process for Ukraine. This means that if Magyar is elected, he would have the ability to unilaterally delay or block Ukraine’s path towards EU membership.
The article concludes with a reference to Kyiv’s application for EU membership in 2022 and the start of accession talks in June 2024. The goal is for potential entry by 2030, although Hungary’s veto power remains a significant obstacle.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com