“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.