Orpo emphasizes need for EU action on Hungary’s visa exemptions during Paris Olympics

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has stated that Hungary’s actions within the European Union must be taken seriously. Orpo made these comments regarding Hungary’s EU standing while attending the Paris Olympics. He emphasized the critical importance of the EU Commission investigating Hungary’s visa exemptions for Russian citizens and taking appropriate measures in response. The Commission demands clarification on Hungary’s summer decision to expedite visas for various nationalities, including Russians.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson shared a letter sent to Hungary on a social media platform today. Orpo noted that Hungary’s conduct as the EU’s rotating presidency should also be critically assessed, asserting that it is unacceptable for member states to act contrary to EU consensus. He stressed the need for a firm stance on this matter and mentioned Finland’s cooperation with other EU countries.

While Finnish Members of Parliament have suggested measures such as suspending Hungary’s voting rights or its Schengen status, Orpo refrained from directly endorsing these proposals. He recalled previous discussions on similar measures at the beginning of the year during debates on supporting Ukraine, where Hungary attempted to obstruct EU aid to Ukraine.

Since Hungary commenced its rotating presidency in July, the tone towards Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has intensified. At the start of Hungary’s presidency, Orbán visited both Russia and China, raising concerns from Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen regarding Hungary’s alignment with EU values. As dissatisfaction with Hungary grows, experts are assessing what Hungary can offer its allies.