Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto accused Ukraine of conducting a “witch hunt” against Hungarian businesses operating in the country, leading to threats of blocking EU aid unless the policies change. Ukraine’s designation of Hungary’s OTP Bank as an “international sponsor of war” sparked protests from Hungary, resulting in the bank being temporarily removed from the list. Hungary continues to demand guarantees that its businesses will not be targeted or sanctioned in the future. Szijjarto’s latest complaint involved allegations that Ukraine planned to revoke distribution permits for medicine from Hungarian pharmaceutical company Richter. Hungary has blocked 500 million euros in assistance to Ukraine from the European Peace Facility and threatens to block a 1.5 billion euro tranche of EU aid from the four-year Ukraine Facility.
In response to Hungary’s actions, Ukraine has been working to resolve issues with Hungary’s Hungarian minority in order to unblock the aid. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba announced that a special commission would be established to address the concerns of national minorities. President Volodymyr Zelensky met with the newly appointed Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok during the Three Seas Summit in Vilnius on April 11, extending an invitation for Hungary to join the Global Peace Summit scheduled for June in Switzerland. This meeting took place amidst growing tensions between the two countries over the treatment of Hungarian businesses in Ukraine and the blocking of EU aid.
Hungary’s blocking of EU aid to Ukraine raises concerns about the implications for the country’s economy and development. The 500 million euros in assistance from the European Peace Facility, as well as the potential blocking of a 1.5 billion euro tranche of aid from the Ukraine Facility, could have significant consequences for Ukraine’s ability to address pressing challenges and support its population. The ongoing disputes between Hungary and Ukraine highlight the complexities of international relations and the impact that political tensions can have on crucial financial support for countries in need.
The accusations of a “witch hunt” against Hungarian businesses in Ukraine raise questions about the motives behind Ukraine’s actions and the potential consequences for bilateral relations. Hungary’s firm stance on protecting its businesses and demanding guarantees from Ukraine reflects a commitment to defending its interests and ensuring fair treatment for Hungarian companies operating abroad. The issue of national minorities, as well as concerns over the distribution of medicine by Hungarian companies, add layers of complexity to the dispute and underscore the need for diplomatic resolutions to avoid further escalation.
The meeting between Zelensky and Sulyok at the Three Seas Summit suggests a willingness on both sides to engage in dialogue and explore opportunities for collaboration. By extending an invitation for Hungary to participate in the Global Peace Summit, Zelensky signals a desire for constructive engagement and cooperation on shared goals. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing tensions, there is potential for progress through diplomatic efforts and a commitment to finding mutually beneficial solutions. The involvement of international partners and diplomatic initiatives could help de-escalate the situation and pave the way for a more positive relationship between Hungary and Ukraine.
Overall, the conflict between Hungary and Ukraine over the treatment of Hungarian businesses and the blocking of EU aid underscores the importance of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue in resolving disputes. Both countries have expressed their concerns and grievances, with Hungary insisting on guarantees for its businesses and Ukraine working to address issues related to its Hungarian minority. The involvement of international partners and forums, such as the Global Peace Summit, provides a platform for constructive engagement and the opportunity to find common ground. By seeking diplomatic solutions and prioritizing mutual understanding, Hungary and Ukraine can work towards resolving their differences and building a more stable and cooperative relationship in the future.
