In an interview, Valeriy Klochok, head of the Veza Center for Civic Analytics, shared his insights on the recent visit of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to Donald Trump and analyzed the politicians' statements on the war in Ukraine.
Klochok noted that, while the visit didn't bring positive news for Ukraine, it nonetheless offered insights into political intentions, particularly Trump's approach to resolving the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump maintains pressure on Europe and Ukraine by withholding weapons supplies, which shifts the diplomatic responsibility toward European states. According to Klochok, Trump is interested in ending the war but currently refrains from exerting pressure on Russia, acting out of his own political and economic interests in Europe.
Klochok highlighted Trump's energy interests in Europe and the selective exceptions provided in sanctions for certain countries. Orbán leverages his cooperation with Trump to boost his domestic standing, displaying social stability and relatively low energy prices in Hungary ahead of elections.
The analyst pointed out that internal issues will be the main concern for Hungarian voters, while the Ukraine issue will not determine the electoral outcome. Even opposition forces are not distinctly pro-Ukrainian.
Klochok warned of the risk of forming anti-Ukrainian political blocs in Europe, especially among the Visegrád Four, and stressed Russia's active efforts to strengthen pro-Russian or socially oriented sentiment. He noted that EU countries have not yet taken effective measures to counter these trends.
The discussion also touched on the issue of Ukraine receiving a reparations loan from the EU. Klochok described Europe's hesitation and slow decision-making, partly caused by reluctance to use taxpayers' money. He emphasized the importance of large-scale aid for both Ukraine's military and social needs.
In summary, Klochok expressed skepticism regarding the EU's willingness to promptly approve further financial and military aid to Ukraine, and called on Ukrainian authorities to intensify diplomatic engagement with partners.
