Recent developments in the European Union have highlighted a deepening internal crisis. During the meeting of European leaders in Copenhagen, heated disputes arose, particularly between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Orbán openly stated that Hungary does not support Ukraine’s accession to the EU and seeks to maintain close relations with Russia. His remarks triggered strong reactions from Western partners, especially amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. This is not Orbán's first time making such statements, with anti-EU and anti-Ukrainian rhetoric ramping up ahead of Hungary’s upcoming elections.
Commentators note that Ukraine’s EU accession is currently blocked by the consensus principle, allowing each country veto power. Reforming foundational EU documents—a subject of debate in Brussels—could change this. Possible solutions include limiting the voting rights of non-compliant states or switching to qualified majority voting.
Hungary has repeatedly faced criticism over rule-of-law violations, restricted media freedoms, and insufficient anti-corruption measures. Orbán mobilizes his electorate using anti-European arguments, portraying Ukraine as a threat to Hungarian interests, especially in agriculture and national security.
Experts say the EU stands at a critical crossroads: it must either transform into a full-fledged confederation and global political player or risk fragmentation due to internal divisions. Decisive reforms could be achieved through the European Parliament and Commission, bypassing consensus if a member country violates core principles.
Amid economic challenges and security shifts, Ukraine’s membership prospects and the resolution of institutional hurdles increasingly test the resilience of the European model.
