“Unacceptable”: Brussels condemns Zelensky’s remarks aimed at Orbán

The European Commission has criticised the language used by Volodymyr Zelensky in a recent statement referring to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, calling it “unacceptable” and urging both sides to reduce escalating rhetoric.

Commission: Zelensky’s threatening language “unacceptable”

Speaking at a press briefing in Brussels on Friday, Commission spokesperson Olof Gill said the EU executive’s position was clear regarding remarks made by the Ukrainian president earlier this week.

According to Gill, the type of language used by Zelensky cannot be accepted within the European Union, especially when it involves threats directed at an EU member state, HVG writes.

The controversy stems from a comment Zelensky made on Wednesday regarding a proposed EU financial support package for Ukraine. Referring indirectly to opposition that might block the funds, he said he hoped that “no single person in the European Union” would stop the EUR 90 billion support or its first instalment, adding that otherwise Ukraine could provide that person’s address to its armed forces so they could “call and discuss the matter in their own way.”

Gill emphasised that threats against EU member states are not acceptable and said the Commission is currently engaged in discussions with the parties involved in an effort to ease tensions between Hungary and Ukraine.

EU calls for a calmer rhetoric

The Commission noted that rhetoric has intensified on both sides of the dispute, which risks undermining broader strategic goals shared by the EU and its partners.

Brussels is therefore encouraging all actors to tone down their statements and focus instead on common priorities, including continued support for Ukraine and efforts to end Russia’s war.

According to the Commission, maintaining pressure on Vladimir Putin and Russia is still a key objective, alongside ensuring that financial assistance to Ukraine is delivered.

A proposed EUR 90 billion EU loan package, already politically agreed by the European Council, is considered crucial in this regard.

Energy security and Druzhba pipeline also discussed

Gill also addressed the dispute surrounding the Druzhba oil pipeline, which plays a major role in supplying crude oil to parts of Central Europe.

He said the Commission is examining possible measures to help restart oil deliveries through the pipeline if disruptions occur. These measures could include financial support, though no concrete steps have yet been announced.

The spokesperson stressed that Brussels is aware of the ongoing negotiations behind the scenes and aims to encourage practical solutions rather than further escalation of the conflict.

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Brussels aware of Ukrainian detainees in Hungary

Gill confirmed that the Commission had also been informed about the detention of seven Ukrainian nationals in Hungary related to a cash and gold transport case, although the EU executive does not yet have detailed information about the matter.

According to media reports, Ukraine’s ambassador has already briefed the EU’s diplomatic service on the developments.

The Commission said it intends to continue working in a “calm and consistent” manner with all parties involved to reduce political tensions, restore stable energy supplies, and ensure agreement on the EU’s financial support for Ukraine.