The European Parliament’s new resolution: support for Ukraine and condemnation of Orbán’s trips

The newly elected European Parliament has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing war with Russia. 

The Parliament adopted a significant resolution on July 17, 2024, emphasizing the need for ongoing international support for Ukraine and denouncing the “peacemaking” initiative of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, particularly his recent visit to Moscow.

The European Parliament’s resolution highlights the following key points:

The resolution highlights the Parliament’s commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. 

It stresses the need for sustained military and financial support for Ukraine, proposes the extension of EU sanctions against Russia and Belarus, and calls for a legal framework to confiscate Russian state-owned assets frozen by the EU to support Ukraine. 

The Parliament condemned Viktor Orbán’s visit to Moscow as a violation of EU treaties and common foreign policy, criticized Hungary’s abuse of its EU Council presidency, and urged Hungary to lift its blockade on Ukraine funding from the European Peace Fund.

Additionally, it welcomed the NATO summit’s outcomes, reaffirmed Ukraine’s path to NATO membership, and called for long-term financial assistance for Ukraine’s reconstruction. 

The resolution, adopted with 495 votes in favor, 137 against, and 47 abstentions, is the first official position of the new Parliament on Russia’s war against Ukraine.

European solidarity for democracy

The European Parliament’s strong stance demonstrates the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine through military aid and sanctions against Russia and Belarus.

By condemning Viktor Orbán’s uncoordinated foreign policy actions, the Parliament reinforces the importance of unity and adherence to common EU policies among member states. 

The focus on confiscating frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine underscores the EU’s strategic approach to financially weakening Russia while bolstering Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction efforts.

The resolution also highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions within the EU, particularly with Hungary’s current administration. The criticism of Orbán’s visit to Moscow and the call for repercussions indicate a growing intolerance for actions that undermine EU solidarity.

This stance is crucial as the EU navigates the complexities of international support for Ukraine and internal political dynamics.