26 EU countries issue statement in support of Ukraine ahead of Alaska talks, Hungary opts out
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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has not signed a statement on the Ukrainian settlement by EU leaders in which they, among other things, supported Kiev’s policy course on European integration.
"Hungary does not associate itself with this Statement," a footnote to the Statement on Ukraine published on the website of the Council of the European Union said.
26 European heads of state and government said in a statement that Ukrainians must have the freedom to decide their future and that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukrainian and European interests.
"Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities," the leaders said, adding that "we share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests."
The statement welcomed the efforts of US President Donald Trump towards "ending Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and achieving a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine."
The EU leaders highlighted a lasting peace is needed with respect of international law, highlighting the territorial integrity of Ukraine.
"International borders must not be changed by force," the statement said.
Citing an EU source, Euronews reported that Hungary opposed the idea of issuing a joint statement ahead of the crucial Alaska talks between Trump and Russia’s Putin.