In a strong statement, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared that Hungary will not back Ukraine on any issue in international forums until the Ukrainian government restores laws safeguarding the rights of ethnic Hungarians in Transcarpathia. Orban accused Ukraine of suppressing Hungarian schools and attempting to convert them into Ukrainian institutions, or even closing them down if their plan fails. He emphasized that the Hungarian government has been diligently advocating for the rights of Hungarians in Transcarpathia, particularly children, in every international forum. Orban firmly stated that Hungary will not provide support to Ukraine in any matter on the global stage until the previously enacted laws, which guaranteed the rights of Hungarians in Transcarpathia, are reinstated.
Drawing attention to further concerns, Orban highlighted that the “new Ukrainian school management in Mukachevo” has imposed a ban on singing the Hungarian national anthem and wearing clothing in Hungarian national colors within educational institutions. These actions by the Ukrainian authorities have sparked outrage and intensified the Hungarian government’s determination to defend the rights of ethnic Hungarians in Transcarpathia.
The issue of ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine has been a long-standing point of contention between the two nations. Hungary has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and cultural identity of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia, a region bordering Hungary. However, tensions have escalated recently as Ukraine’s actions have been perceived as a direct violation of the rights of ethnic Hungarians.
Orban’s strong stance sends a clear message that Hungary will not compromise on the issue of the rights of ethnic Hungarians in Transcarpathia. This decision is likely to have significant implications for Ukraine’s relations with Hungary and its standing in international forums. As the conflict between the two countries unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Ukraine will address Hungary’s concerns and take steps to rectify the situation, or if tensions will continue to escalate.
