Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban has sharply criticized the European Union's plan to fast-track Ukraine's accession to the bloc, labelling it an 'open declaration of war' against Hungary. This move comes as the European Commission outlines a strategy to expedite Kyiv's membership process, potentially offering partial EU membership before Ukraine fulfills all necessary reforms. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pushed for Ukraine's EU membership by 2027 as part of any peace agreement with Russia.

Orban's stance is of particular interest as he has been an outspoken ally of Moscow, and his opposition to Ukraine's EU membership illustrates the increasing division within the EU regarding the integration of nations affected by conflict. The criticism highlights a potential rift as member states grapple with their relationships to both Ukraine and Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. EU officials are reportedly exploring options to circumvent Orban's veto power, which could involve diplomatic pressure from external actors like U.S. President Donald Trump, or even invoking Article 7 of the EU Treaty to suspend Hungary's voting rights.

This situation raises significant concerns about Hungary's position in the EU and the potential implications for future enlargement policies. As the EU continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the push for Ukrainian integration may serve as a litmus test for the unity and resilience of the European Union in the face of internal dissent and external threats from Russia. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future dynamics of the EU's eastern borders and its approach to member state sovereignty versus collective action in response to regional crises.