Viktor Orban says Trump will not fund Ukraine’s war against Russia if he comes to power again
The Prime Minister of Hungary – Viktor Orban, has said that the Former President of the United States (U.S.) -Donald Trump, will not fund Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion if he is re-elected as the U.S. President.
His remarks came after he met his old ally, Trump, in Florida. He further said that the war would end due to lack of funds. Trump has also pledged to end the war “within 24 hours” if re-elected, without providing any details. He added that Trump has pretty detailed plans on how to end the Russia-Ukraine war, but did not elaborate.
Speaking on the occasion, Orban said, “If the Americans don’t give money and weapons, along with the Europeans, then the war is over. And if the Americans don’t give money, the Europeans alone are unable to finance this war. And then the war is over.”
Taking it to X, Orban tweeted,
President @realDonaldTrump was a president of peace. He commanded respect in the world, and created the conditions for peace. During his presidency there was peace in the Middle East and peace in Ukraine. We need him back more than ever! Thank you for the invitation, Mr.… pic.twitter.com/4nSqwoYxMV
— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) March 10, 2024
During his U.S. visit, Orban did not meet the current President of the U.S. – Joe Bide, but rather met Trump, who is expected to be Mr Trump’s main rival in the presidential elections on November 24. It is highly unusual for a visiting foreign leader to schedule talks with former counterparts without calling on the current leadership.
Ukraine is also struggling to fund its war as a U.S. $ 61 billion bill has been blocked by the Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives. The Republicans, openly encouraged by Trump, say they will not allow the bill to clear the final hurdle in the House of Representatives without first agreeing on additional funding for U.S. border security. Ukraine is critically dependent on weapons from the U.S., the main supplier, and other Western allies to keep fighting Russia.
Besides, the European Union (E.U.) leaders are increasingly concerned that a second Trump Presidency would see a significant reduction in U.S. military and financial aid to Ukraine and the North Atlantic Treaty Alliance (NATO) military alliance.
The E.U. has been critical of Orban for maintaining close ties with the President of Russia – Vladimir Putin. Orban has refused to send weapons to its neighbour Ukraine, stating repeatedly that Kyiv is unable to win against a nuclear-armed Russia.
