The Hungarian government has announced the launch of a national petition opposing European Union proposals to provide long-term financial support to Ukraine, according to statements made at a government press briefing by Head of the Prime Minister’s Office Gergely Gulyás
Gulyás said the cabinet had reviewed European Commission proposals aimed at supporting Ukraine and concluded that Brussels intends to commit Europe’s future resources despite expectations of a prolonged war. He argued that the plans go far beyond a nine-billion-euro loan, citing additional demands amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars, which he said would not be repaid directly but linked to potential Russian war reparations. According to the minister, the EU has already provided Ukraine with funding worth several times more than what Hungary has received from the bloc since joining in 2004. He stressed that the government believes European policy should prioritize peace and warned that such financial commitments would effectively draw Europe into the conflict, placing an unsustainable burden on member states.
Gulyás said the government considers it essential to ask the Hungarian public for its opinion on what he described as decade-long, costly commitments. He added that the issue transcends party politics and that Hungary must clearly define the limits of what it is willing to finance. In his view, Hungarian taxpayers should not be responsible for covering the costs of the war or the operation of the Ukrainian state.
Responding to criticism from opposition figures who have described Ukraine’s support as an economic opportunity, Gulyás said such positions align with Brussels rather than national interests. He also rejected claims from international organizations that Hungarian pensioners are worse off, pointing out that pension purchasing power has increased significantly since 2010.
‘Hungarian taxpayers should not be responsible for covering the costs of the war or the operation of the Ukrainian state’
On domestic issues, the minister confirmed that the 13th-month pension payment and the first instalment of the 14th-month pension will be transferred on two consecutive days, following consultations with the banking sector to ensure secure processing. The government also approved a home energy storage support scheme, offering up to 2.5 million forints in non-refundable aid to households purchasing energy storage systems, aimed at reducing utility costs.
Addressing minority rights, Gulyás said the cabinet had reviewed recent Slovak legal practices related to the Beneš decrees, emphasizing that collective guilt is unacceptable. He stated that Hungary will provide legal assistance to affected individuals and, if necessary, pursue the matter at international human rights forums.
Regarding the ongoing cold weather, Gulyás reported that public services remain operational, all settlements are accessible, and winter road maintenance is ongoing. A cold-weather emergency protocol remains in force, requiring social institutions to admit anyone in need. He added that the free firewood programme continues without limits.
The government also discussed concerns related to the liquidation of a major grain company, assuring farmers that they would receive their payments through a special financial arrangement.
Government spokesperson Eszter Vitályos highlighted additional measures, including funding to reduce student dropout rates and a healthcare pilot programme led by Semmelweis University, which has already expanded specialist care and diagnostic services in the Gödöllő region.
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