Macron to host Hungary's Magyar in Paris; Ukraine support, EU accession likely on agenda

Hungarian President Péter Magyar is set to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. While the specific agenda has not been publicly disclosed, discussions are expected to focus on bilateral relations and, significantly, on continued support for Ukraine, including its European Union accession process.

Macron has consistently positioned himself as a staunch supporter of Ukraine within Europe. He recently reiterated France's commitment on social media, stating, "Our resolve to continue supporting Ukraine, to do everything for a just and lasting peace, and to strengthen Europe's security has only been further strengthened." This stance underscores France's dedication to aiding Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.

The meeting follows recent developments concerning Hungary's position on Ukraine's EU aspirations. Reports suggest that the Hungarian government may lift its veto on opening EU accession talks with Ukraine. Previously, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán had linked this step to the restoration of rights for the Hungarian minority in Ukraine's Zakarpattia region. During a press conference in Berlin, Orbán indicated that negotiations with the Ukrainian side were ongoing.

Furthermore, Politico reported that Hungary's agreement extends beyond just initiating accession talks. It also involves potentially reimbursing, through a new EU defense fund, funds previously allocated by member states for Ukraine's war financing. This could amount to approximately 40 billion euros in past military spending, according to Fidesz MEP Csaba Dömötör, which equates to about 14 trillion Hungarian forints.

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Our resolve to continue supporting Ukraine, to do everything for a just and lasting peace, and to strengthen Europe's security has only been further strengthened.