Budapest, October 9, 2024 – The Europe Today: On Tuesday, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto claimed that many NATO members are acting “unfairly” towards Ukraine and are privately opposed to the country’s desire to join the US-led military alliance. Speaking at a televised press conference, Szijjarto stated that while several NATO members publicly express support for Ukraine, their private discussions reveal skepticism and opposition to Ukraine’s accession.
Szijjarto criticized the behavior of a “significant part” of NATO members, accusing them of being dishonest about their true stance towards Ukraine. He conveyed this message during a recent meeting with Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga, though he did not disclose Sibiga’s reaction. “When we are behind closed doors, the majority [of NATO states] shares the position that I just articulated,” Szijjarto remarked.
Hungary has been one of the few NATO members to openly oppose Ukraine’s membership, warning that its accession could trigger a global conflict. Szijjarto reiterated that NATO enlargement requires the unanimous approval of all 32 member states, giving any one nation the power to block Ukraine’s bid.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who returned to office following the October 2023 elections, has voiced similar concerns, stating that Ukraine’s accession would “serve as a good basis” for World War III. He vowed to prevent Ukraine’s NATO membership as long as he holds power.
Ukraine formally applied to join NATO in September 2022, citing its ongoing conflict with Russia. While Western countries publicly back Ukraine’s NATO aspirations, they have yet to provide a clear timetable or roadmap for membership. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky acknowledged in July that Ukraine’s NATO membership will not materialize until the conflict with Russia has ended.
