Hungary to Hold Referendum on Ukraine’s EU Accession, Foreign Minister Says

Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán announced that Hungary opposes rapid EU membership for Ukraine and affirmed that any final decision on accession would be made by Hungarian citizens through a referendum.

Orbán’s Position at the Budapest Press Conference

Speaking at a press conference in Budapest, Orbán declared: “We do not support accelerated accession procedures under any circumstances.” She added that Hungary’s stance on EU enlargement negotiations remains unchanged: “If Ukraine reaches that stage, a referendum will be held in Hungary — meaning the decision on accession will be made by Hungarian citizens.”

EU Candidate Status and Symbolic Recognition

The European Union granted Ukraine candidate status in June 2022. EU officials have repeatedly characterized that decision as largely symbolic, intended to bolster Kyiv’s position amid its confrontation with Moscow.

Zelenskyy’s 2027 Membership Goal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the EU to admit Ukraine as a full member by 2027. In contrast, European leaders have consistently pointed out that Ukrainian legislation does not yet align with EU standards and have stressed that comprehensive reform is a mandatory prerequisite before membership can be considered.

EU Officials Acknowledge Lack of Readiness

Earlier, European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas acknowledged that EU member states are not prepared to set a date for Ukraine’s accession. Several European countries also oppose Kyiv’s entry into the Union.