European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a forceful speech on Thursday promising long-term EU support for Ukraine, both militarily and financially. Speaking at a reconstruction conference, she pledged continued solidarity with Kyiv, while unveiling new financing tools to boost Ukraine’s defence industry and rebuild its economy.
Her remarks sparked a sharp reaction from Balázs Orbán, political director to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. In a Facebook post, he accused von der Leyen of prioritizing Ukrainian over European—and Hungarian—interests. He also criticized what he described as a ‘grand coalition’ between Hungary’s opposition Tisza Party and the Democratic Coalition (DK), which he claimed stood firmly behind von der Leyen’s pro-Ukraine stance.
According to Orbán, while the ‘liberal elite’ in the European Parliament rescued von der Leyen politically, she simultaneously promised more funding to continue the war, signalling unwavering support for Ukraine.
Balázs Orbán quoted the following from Von der Leyen’s speech:
‘“Today, we gather in this magnificent city to express our lasting commitment to Ukraine. Our determination is unshakable, our support unwavering, because we will always stand by Ukraine.’ She emphasized that Europe’s solidarity ‘continues on every front: military, financial, and political,’ adding: ‘This is as much a war of resources and defence systems as it is a war of values. That’s why we must continue investing in Ukraine’s defence and technological edge.’”
Introducing the EU’s 2030 defence readiness plan, von der Leyen said it would ensure the resources needed for a ‘quantum leap’ in capabilities, and encourage investment in Ukraine’s defence industry. She then directly addressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy: ‘As you said, Volodymyr, Ukraine has high-tech weapons systems and can deliver quickly and cost-effectively. That’s exactly what the EU needs. But, as you also pointed out, Ukraine’s defence industry is currently operating at just 60 per cent capacity.’
She added that, under the SAFE instrument, EU member states can now take out loans to purchase directly from Ukraine’s defence sector: ‘For member states, this means top quality, speed, and low prices. For Ukraine, it brings vital revenue and a chance to strengthen its industrial base.’
Von der Leyen reminded listeners that since Russia’s full-scale invasion, Europe has remained Ukraine’s largest donor: ‘So far, nearly 165 billion euros have been provided. Just this year, we will cover 84 per cent of Ukraine’s requested external financing.’
“‘We will ensure Ukraine receives support through 2028 and beyond’”
Looking ahead, she pledged continued support beyond the current EU budget cycle: ‘We will ensure Ukraine receives support through 2028 and beyond. Our new partnership with Ukraine will play a key role in attracting private investment—essential for reconstruction. We are building on a solid foundation.’
Von der Leyen also announced a new initiative: ‘I am particularly pleased to launch today the European Flagship Fund for Ukraine’s Reconstruction—the world’s largest capital fund dedicated to rebuilding. The Ukrainian people are ready to lead their economy into the future. Now is the time to invest.’
On the political front, she praised Ukraine’s reform efforts despite the ongoing war: ‘Under constant fire, Ukraine continues to implement reform after reform—it’s truly impressive. Ukraine is ready for the next step in the EU accession process. The Commission is clear: Ukraine is ready to open negotiations on the cluster covering fundamental values.’
Von der Leyen ended her speech with a resounding message of unity:
‘Slava Ukraini – Long live Europe!’
In contrast, Balázs Orbán framed the speech as evidence of misplaced priorities in Brussels and alleged betrayal by Hungarian opposition leaders. As debate intensifies around EU funding and Ukraine’s future, the speech has deepened political divides—both within Hungary and across Europe.
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