EU's Borrell to boycott Budapest summit, set defence meet in Brussels
Head of EU diplomacy Josep Borrell unexpectedly announced after the meeting in Brussels that he would boycott the prestigious meeting of foreign ministers planned in Budapest in August for Hungary. At the same time, he will designate a summit of defence ministers in Brussels on that day.
24 July 2024 18:02
Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has decided to boycott the August gathering of foreign ministers in Budapest.
To emphasize that this is a "punishment" for the Hungarian leader, he will set a meeting of defence ministers in Brussels on the same date. The Spanish MEP's plan met with criticism in the European Parliament. According to "Süddeutsche Zeitung," Borrell cannot count on the support of all European Union members.
"The Spaniard apparently wants to end his term with a strong gesture and punish the Hungarian Prime Minister for how he continuously undermines European foreign policy, especially solidarity with Ukraine, which is under attack by Russia," comments the German newspaper.
The newspaper emphasizes that Borrell cannot count on the support of all EU members. "At least ten countries reject the boycott, and the German government is also skeptical," reports "SZ." German Interior Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed a fairly neutral stance on the Spanish politician's move, commenting that everything has already been said regarding Orban's trips. However, other foreign ministers were more blunt.
Luxembourg's Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel reacted with harsh criticism. He stated that it was "nonsense."
Viktor Orban's initiative sparked dissatisfaction in EU capitals, especially the meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow was not well received.
Although Orban did not claim that he represented the EU at the meeting, he did everything to make it appear so. The series of visits to Ukraine, Russia, and China began just after Hungary took over the presidency.
Despite most EU leaders feeling discomfort due to the Hungarian leader's actions, it is difficult for the European Union to agree on what consequences Orban should face. Therefore, it is uncertain whether Borrell's announced boycott of Budapest will actually be implemented.
EU countries will individually decide whether to send their representatives to Budapest or ignore the gathering.
