Hungary has expressed its desire for Ukraine to act as a “buffer zone” between Russia and the European Union, according to János Bóka, Hungary’s Minister for EU Affairs, in an interview with the Financial Times.
Bóka suggested that a potential return of Donald Trump to the White House would mean the EU should cease providing Ukraine with military and financial support.
“We do not see Europe’s security in integrating Ukraine into defense systems, but we see the need to create a buffer zone between Russia and European defense structures, which serves the interests of both Russia and Europe,” he stated.
He further emphasized that for Ukraine to function as a buffer zone, there must be an international consensus—primarily involving the U.S. and Russia—on what actions are permissible within Ukrainian territory. “Otherwise, it will be a conflict zone, not a buffer zone,” he warned.
Additionally, Bóka argued that any action taken by the U.S. or the EU in Ukraine without Russian President Vladimir Putin’s approval could escalate tensions rather than promote stability.
