Hungary’s governing Fidesz party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, chose not to participate in an emergency parliamentary session where a vote on Sweden’s NATO membership was set to take place. This decision marks another delay in Sweden’s bid to join the alliance, adding to months of postponements.
Allegations of Deception Delay Vote
Fidesz, which holds a parliamentary majority, has delayed Sweden’s NATO bid since July 2022, accusing Swedish politicians of spreading falsehoods about Hungary’s democratic status. Despite pressure from NATO allies, Hungary has resisted holding a vote on Sweden’s accession.
Orbán’s Promise Unfulfilled
Despite earlier assurances to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg that his party would support Sweden’s membership bid at the earliest opportunity, Orbán’s government did not participate in the parliamentary session, preventing a vote on the agenda.
Criticism and Humiliation
Opposition lawmakers criticized Orbán’s stance, labeling Hungary’s position as humiliating. Agnes Vadai, from the Democratic Coalition party, condemned Orbán’s actions, stating that they serve neither Hungary’s interests nor its security.
Conditions for Approval
Hungarian officials have suggested that Fidesz lawmakers will only support a vote on Sweden’s NATO accession if Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson visits Budapest for negotiations. Kristersson has agreed to the meeting but insists it should happen after Hungary approves Sweden’s NATO membership. The timing of a future vote remains uncertain.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Financial Times
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