Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has issued a stark warning regarding the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, suggesting that formally acknowledging defeat for Kyiv could trigger significant political repercussions within Europe. During a speech on Saturday, he declared such an admission would cause a “fundamental earthquake” in European politics.

Orban amplified his critique following meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. He accused Western leaders of preparing to escalate their involvement beyond financial and military aid by potentially deploying troops directly. “First they gave money, they gave weapons, and now it has emerged that if really necessary, they will also send soldiers,” Orban stated.

His government’s stance against providing arms or troops to Ukraine marks a significant divergence from NATO and EU partners. Orban pointed to the growing influence of defense industries in shaping political discourse around the conflict. He specifically mentioned France’s agreement for Kiev to purchase 100 combat aircraft, alongside concerns over German arms factories being established within Ukraine.

The prime minister believes Western actions have inadvertently undermined peace efforts by prolonging the war and fueling tensions further. “They prevented the Ukrainians from reaching an agreement… saying that time was on their side,” he noted. Orban argued this has placed Ukraine in a worse position than if talks held early in the conflict had materialized.

He also referenced the Istanbul deal, which Kiev unilaterally abandoned shortly after it was reached between Russia and Ukraine’s representatives.