Thu Jan 09 15:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Ukraine Offers to Replace Hungary in EU and NATO Amid Growing Tensions

**Kyiv, Ukraine –** Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, offering to replace Hungary in both the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) should Budapest opt to join Russian-led blocs instead. The statement, also posted on X (formerly Twitter), followed recent comments by Hungarian officials blaming Ukraine’s decision not to renew a Russian gas transit agreement for rising European energy prices.

The Ukrainian government characterized Hungary’s claims as a “politically motivated information campaign,” noting that Hungary’s gas supply is unaffected by the halted Ukrainian transit route. While acknowledging the statement’s satirical nature, the move underscores the escalating tensions between the two countries.

Hungary, widely seen as the EU’s most pro-Moscow member, has consistently supported Russia’s narratives surrounding the war in Ukraine, obstructing Western efforts to aid Kyiv and delaying some EU sanctions against Russia. This has led to increased friction with Ukraine, particularly after Ukraine’s announcement that it will not renew a key gas transit agreement with Russia in 2025.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto claimed Ukraine’s decision caused a 20 percent rise in European natural gas prices. However, Ukraine maintains that Hungary’s gas imports are unaffected and that its claims are intended for domestic consumption.

Ukraine’s statement emphasized its commitment to EU and NATO membership and urged Hungary to cease its undermining of EU unity. Kyiv called on Budapest to focus on strengthening its own energy security instead of perpetuating pro-Russian narratives. The statement concluded with a call for Hungary to contribute to ending the war by working towards greater European energy independence. The statement comes on the same day Ukraine’s military announced a strike on a Russian oil depot.

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