resident Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban had no reason to block Ukraine's EU membership. But why is Hungary blocking Ukraine's EU membership bid? Watch this video to find out.

Why is Hungary blocking Ukraine's EU membership bid?

Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban has said that Ukraine was in no way ready to join the bloc. He has made it clear that he will block a proposal to start negotiations on Ukraine's EU membership at a summit in Brussels. James Jackson, journalist, and political analyst in Germany & CE Europe joins us to discuss.

Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid

Members of Hungary’s ruling right-wing Fidesz party and allies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban will hold closed-door meetings with US Republicans over halting US aid to Ukraine, The Guardian reported Sunday (Dec 10).

According to the report, Márton Ugrósdy, the deputy state secretary for the prime minister’s political director’s office, and Attila Demkó, a leading pro-Orbán academic, along with members of the Hungarian embassy in Washington, will be participating in a two-day event hosted by conservative think-tank Heritage Foundation starting Monday (Dec 11).

Kelley Currie, a former ambassador under then-president Donald Trump, and Magor Ernyei, the international director of the Centre for Fundamental Rights, are expected to be on the guest list on the first day.

On the second day, some Republican Congressmen have been reportedly invited to join the closed-door discussions on Ukraine.

A diplomatic source close to the Hungarian embassy was quoted by the Guardian as saying: “Orbán is confident that the Ukraine aid will not pass in Congress. That is why he is trying to block assistance from the EU as well.”

<h2>Ruckus in Washington over Ukraine aid</h2>

The US Congress is heavily polarised over the issue of shoring up Ukraine’s defences using American taxpayers’ money.

The White House warned earlier this week that the fund to help Ukraine fight its war against Russia will run dry by the end of this year if no further congressional action is taken.

Watch:&nbsp;"Indian investors are important for Hungary," says Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto

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However, the appeal hardly moved the stubborn Republicans.

On Wednesday (Dec 6), Senate Republicans blocked an emergency spending bill to fund the war in Ukraine.

<h2>Hungary’s opposition to Ukraine</h2>

Hungary in late November declared that it would block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union.

The announcement came days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate.

Last month, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-declares-it-will-block-eus-aid-to-ukraine-membership-talks-664890">Also read:&nbsp;Hungary declares it will block EU’s aid to Ukraine, membership talks</a>

“Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party&nbsp;showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros.

Orbán, who is described as a Putin ally by Western media, is a frequent critic of aid to help Ukraine against the Russian invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

Members of Hungary’s ruling right-wing Fidesz party and allies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban will hold closed-door meetings with US Republicans over halting US aid to Ukraine, The Guardian reported Sunday (Dec 10).

Members of Hungary’s ruling right-wing Fidesz party and allies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban will hold closed-door meetings with US Republicans over halting US aid to Ukraine, The Guardian reported Sunday (Dec 10). According to the report, Márton Ugrósdy, the deputy state secretary for the prime minister’s political director’s office, and Attila Demkó, a leading pro-Orbán academic, along with members of the Hungarian embassy in Washington, will be participating in a two-day event hosted by conservative think-tank Heritage Foundation starting Monday (Dec 11). Kelley Currie, a former ambassador under then-president Donald Trump, and Magor Ernyei, the international director of the Centre for Fundamental Rights, are expected to be on the guest list on the first day. On the second day, some Republican Congressmen have been reportedly invited to join the closed-door discussions on Ukraine. A diplomatic source close to the Hungarian embassy was quoted by the Guardian as saying: “Orbán is confident that the Ukraine aid will not pass in Congress. That is why he is trying to block assistance from the EU as well.” Ruckus in Washington over Ukraine aid The US Congress is heavily polarised over the issue of shoring up Ukraine’s defences using American taxpayers’ money. The White House warned earlier this week that the fund to help Ukraine fight its war against Russia will run dry by the end of this year if no further congressional action is taken. Watch: "Indian investors are important for Hungary," says Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto × However, the appeal hardly moved the stubborn Republicans. On Wednesday (Dec 6), Senate Republicans blocked an emergency spending bill to fund the war in Ukraine. Hungary’s opposition to Ukraine Hungary in late November declared that it would block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union. The announcement came days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate. Last month, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Also read: Hungary declares it will block EU’s aid to Ukraine, membership talks “Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros. Orbán, who is described as a Putin ally by Western media, is a frequent critic of aid to help Ukraine against the Russian invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary PM Viktor Orban’s allies to meet with US Republicans on halting Ukraine aid

Hungary and Slovakia booked their tickets for Euro 2024 on Thursday while 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal scored again for already-qualified Spain. The Hungarians guaranteed their place at the finals in Germany when an own goal from Bulgaria's Alex Petkov deep in stoppage time gave them a 2-2 draw in Sofia.

The visitors only needed a point to qualify but were 2-1 down before Petkov allowed a cross to skid off the top of his head and into his own net in the 97th minute in the most dramatic of finishes.

The Hungarian players exploded in joy at the end of a match played in an empty stadium because of fears of protests against the head of the Bulgarian football federation. Instead, Bulgarian fans mounted protests outside the ground.

Ten supporters and five police officers were injured in clashes and police also used water cannon to disperse crowds of fans angry at the lack of their national team's progress. The draw gave Hungary 15 points from seven games in Group G of European qualifying, two ahead of Serbia.

<h2>Haraslin double&nbsp;</h2>

In Bratislava, Slovakia cruised past Iceland 4-2, with two goals from Lukas Haraslin helping them qualify for the finals for the third time in a row. Hungary and Slovakia join host nation Germany, Austria, Belgium, England, France, Portugal, Scotland, Spain and Turkey as the teams qualified so far.

In other&nbsp;games, Spain, who have also already secured their qualification, comfortably beat Cyprus 3-1 with starlet Yamal opening the scoring in the fifth minute. Yamal had become Spain's youngest player and scorer in a 7-1 qualifying win against Georgia in September and on Thursday he rounded the goalkeeper and scored with a powerful finish.

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Already-qualified Scotland came from behind to draw 2-2 with Georgia in Tbilisi thanks to Lawrence Shankland's 93rd minute equaliser. Serbia have to wait to qualify from Group G as Montenegro beat Lithuania 2-0 to keep their hopes alive.

Portugal opened up an eight-point lead over Slovakia in Group J by beating Liechtenstein 2-0 in Vaduz with goals from Cristiano Ronaldo -- his 128th international strike to extend his world record -- and Joao Cancelo. Ronaldo's chance was created by Diogo Jota's beautifully weighted pass through the defence, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner firing the ball into the roof of the net.

Luxembourg thrashed Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 and will enter the playoffs in a bid for qualification after a campaign that has defied expectations. Azerbaijan eased past a woeful Sweden 3-0 in Baku in Group F, from which Austria and Belgium have already qualified. Austria beat bottom team Estonia 2-0.

Hungary and Slovakia booked their tickets for Euro 2024 on Thursday while 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal scored again for already-qualified Spain. The Hungarians guaranteed their place at the finals in Germany when an own goal from Bulgaria's Alex Petkov deep in stoppage time gave them a 2-2 draw in Sofia.

Hungary and Slovakia booked their tickets for Euro 2024 on Thursday while 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal scored again for already-qualified Spain. The Hungarians guaranteed their place at the finals in Germany when an own goal from Bulgaria's Alex Petkov deep in stoppage time gave them a 2-2 draw in Sofia. The visitors only needed a point to qualify but were 2-1 down before Petkov allowed a cross to skid off the top of his head and into his own net in the 97th minute in the most dramatic of finishes. The Hungarian players exploded in joy at the end of a match played in an empty stadium because of fears of protests against the head of the Bulgarian football federation. Instead, Bulgarian fans mounted protests outside the ground. Ten supporters and five police officers were injured in clashes and police also used water cannon to disperse crowds of fans angry at the lack of their national team's progress. The draw gave Hungary 15 points from seven games in Group G of European qualifying, two ahead of Serbia. Haraslin double In Bratislava, Slovakia cruised past Iceland 4-2, with two goals from Lukas Haraslin helping them qualify for the finals for the third time in a row. Hungary and Slovakia join host nation Germany, Austria, Belgium, England, France, Portugal, Scotland, Spain and Turkey as the teams qualified so far. In other games, Spain, who have also already secured their qualification, comfortably beat Cyprus 3-1 with starlet Yamal opening the scoring in the fifth minute. Yamal had become Spain's youngest player and scorer in a 7-1 qualifying win against Georgia in September and on Thursday he rounded the goalkeeper and scored with a powerful finish. Also Read: WATCH | 49ers LB Dre Greenlaw and Eagles security chief Big Dom ejected after on-field confrontation Already-qualified Scotland came from behind to draw 2-2 with Georgia in Tbilisi thanks to Lawrence Shankland's 93rd minute equaliser. Serbia have to wait to qualify from Group G as Montenegro beat Lithuania 2-0 to keep their hopes alive. Portugal opened up an eight-point lead over Slovakia in Group J by beating Liechtenstein 2-0 in Vaduz with goals from Cristiano Ronaldo -- his 128th international strike to extend his world record -- and Joao Cancelo. Ronaldo's chance was created by Diogo Jota's beautifully weighted pass through the defence, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner firing the ball into the roof of the net. Luxembourg thrashed Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 and will enter the playoffs in a bid for qualification after a campaign that has defied expectations. Azerbaijan eased past a woeful Sweden 3-0 in Baku in Group F, from which Austria and Belgium have already qualified. Austria beat bottom team Estonia 2-0.

Hungary, Slovakia book Euro 2024 berths; Lamine Yamal scores again for already-qualified Spain

At least 33 police officers and 24 football fans were injured in clashes outside the stadium where Bulgaria were playing a Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary, authorities said Friday. UEFA had ordered Thursday's game in Sofia to be played behind closed doors after a request by the national federation, which feared trouble following a supporters' call for a major protest against the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) and its long-time president Borislav Mihaylov.

But around 4,000 supporters gathered outside the national stadium and some involved in the demonstrations suffered broken limbs in the clashes. "Twenty-four injured were examined, including seven who were hospitalised with head traumas, broken legs and arms and many who were gassed with pepper spray," Katya Sungarska, a spokeswoman for the national emergency centre, told AFP Friday.

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"The injured police are 33, there are some with serious injuries and hospitalised," Stefan Ivanov, deputy chief of the Sofia police directorate, said at a briefing. Thirty-three football fans were detained last night and arrests were still being made, he said, slamming the violence as "an unprecedented violation of public order with serious aggression and posing high risk".

Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov said he would consult UEFA about their assessment of the organisation of the event and the decision to shut the stadium to fans. "Yesterday we witnessed ugly scenes of violence. Their main cause is the long-standing management of the Bulgarian Football Union which led to a decline of Bulgarian football, without any prospects for development," Denkov told journalists.

But he refrained from directly calling for Mihaylov's resignation. Several politicians have already demanded the 60-year-old former goalkeeper for the national team to quit immediately but the BFU has not commented. The prime minister sacked the deputy minister of the interior after he allowed fans from rival clubs to gather in one location.

<h2>Fans' anger</h2>

Police said supporters from Sofia's arch rivals CSKA and Levski as well as fans from Plovdiv and Varna has gathered outside the stadium on Thursday. They shouted "Resign!" and held banners "18 years is enough" to call for Mihaylov to stand down, accusing him of corruption and leading Bulgarian football into an unprecedented decline.

Violent clashes erupted after groups of masked fans started to throw smoke bombs, pavement blocks, stones and beer bottles at police lines.&nbsp;Over 1,500 policemen in full anti-riot gear were in place to ensure security.

Two water cannons were deployed to disperse the crowd -- a measure used relatively rarely in the Balkan country. An AFP reporter saw at least seven fans with head injuries after police pushed away the supporters, who set fire to a police van and several garbage containers.

Fans' anger has built up in recent years over the poor results of the national team that has failed to qualify for any major tournaments and went through numerous coaches during Mihaylov's time at the helm of the federation.

The controversial president quit in 2019 but then withdraw his resignation and was re-elected in 2021, despite a record marred by suspicions of match-fixing and a racist abuse scandal during a match against England in 2019. Hungary qualified for the finals as a result of the 2-2 draw on Thursday. Despite the point Bulgaria achieved, they are last in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, with three points from seven games.

At least 33 police officers and 24 football fans were injured in clashes outside the stadium where Bulgaria were playing a Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary, authorities said Friday.

At least 33 police officers and 24 football fans were injured in clashes outside the stadium where Bulgaria were playing a Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary, authorities said Friday. UEFA had ordered Thursday's game in Sofia to be played behind closed doors after a request by the national federation, which feared trouble following a supporters' call for a major protest against the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) and its long-time president Borislav Mihaylov. But around 4,000 supporters gathered outside the national stadium and some involved in the demonstrations suffered broken limbs in the clashes. "Twenty-four injured were examined, including seven who were hospitalised with head traumas, broken legs and arms and many who were gassed with pepper spray," Katya Sungarska, a spokeswoman for the national emergency centre, told AFP Friday. Also Read: Chief selector George Bailey hits back at Johnson for ‘uncomfortable remarks’ against David Warner "The injured police are 33, there are some with serious injuries and hospitalised," Stefan Ivanov, deputy chief of the Sofia police directorate, said at a briefing. Thirty-three football fans were detained last night and arrests were still being made, he said, slamming the violence as "an unprecedented violation of public order with serious aggression and posing high risk". Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov said he would consult UEFA about their assessment of the organisation of the event and the decision to shut the stadium to fans. "Yesterday we witnessed ugly scenes of violence. Their main cause is the long-standing management of the Bulgarian Football Union which led to a decline of Bulgarian football, without any prospects for development," Denkov told journalists. But he refrained from directly calling for Mihaylov's resignation. Several politicians have already demanded the 60-year-old former goalkeeper for the national team to quit immediately but the BFU has not commented. The prime minister sacked the deputy minister of the interior after he allowed fans from rival clubs to gather in one location. Fans' anger Police said supporters from Sofia's arch rivals CSKA and Levski as well as fans from Plovdiv and Varna has gathered outside the stadium on Thursday. They shouted "Resign!" and held banners "18 years is enough" to call for Mihaylov to stand down, accusing him of corruption and leading Bulgarian football into an unprecedented decline. Violent clashes erupted after groups of masked fans started to throw smoke bombs, pavement blocks, stones and beer bottles at police lines. Over 1,500 policemen in full anti-riot gear were in place to ensure security. Two water cannons were deployed to disperse the crowd -- a measure used relatively rarely in the Balkan country. An AFP reporter saw at least seven fans with head injuries after police pushed away the supporters, who set fire to a police van and several garbage containers. Fans' anger has built up in recent years over the poor results of the national team that has failed to qualify for any major tournaments and went through numerous coaches during Mihaylov's time at the helm of the federation. The controversial president quit in 2019 but then withdraw his resignation and was re-elected in 2021, despite a record marred by suspicions of match-fixing and a racist abuse scandal during a match against England in 2019. Hungary qualified for the finals as a result of the 2-2 draw on Thursday. Despite the point Bulgaria achieved, they are last in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, with three points from seven games.

Clashes erupt outside Bulgaria stadium during Euro 2024 qualifier, dozens of people injured

Hungary will block any EU&nbsp;proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union, declared a top minister Thursday (Nov 30).

Gergely Gulyas, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, said in a press brief that the decision to begin talks to formally admit war-ravaged Ukraine into the EU was “premature.”

"We are dealing with a completely premature proposal," Gulyas said, adding that Hungary "cannot contribute to a common decision" on inviting Ukraine to begin the process of joining the bloc.

The announcement comes days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate.

<h2>Hungary threatens to block EU aid</h2>

Earlier this week, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

“Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party, showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros.

Watch:&nbsp;Will Hungary veto EU aid to Ukraine?

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Both Ursula and Soros are favourite punching bags for the right-wing party.

“We must say no because it is unsustainable, because it has no future. I am convinced that today, in Brussels, Europe is being destroyed and led to its ruins,” Orban told supporters.

In early November, Orban had said that Ukraine was “light years” from joining the EU bloc.

<h2>EU’s response to Ukraine’s membership bid</h2>

Last month, the EU’s executive arm asked Ukraine to fix its governance issues and address concerns regarding corruption, the rights of minorities and lobbying.

However, the biggest hurdle in the EU’s way remains achieving unanimity among the member states.

Hungary has not only threatened to block the EU’s efforts to aid Ukraine but also questioned the bloc’s sanctions against Russia.

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Meanwhile, Hungary has also locked its horns with the EU over the ‘withholding’ of its funds.

On Thursday, Gulyas also said Hungary would not support proposed amendments to the EU's budget, part of which would provide 50 billion euros ($54.5 billion) in long-term aid to Kyiv.

He said the EU was "illegally" withholding funds from Hungary, and that the government would consequently decline to support any budget amendment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hungary will block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union, declared a top minister Thursday (Nov 30). Gergely Gulyas, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, said in a press brief that the decision to begin talks to formally admit war-ravaged Ukraine into the EU was “premature.

Hungary will block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union, declared a top minister Thursday (Nov 30). Gergely Gulyas, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, said in a press brief that the decision to begin talks to formally admit war-ravaged Ukraine into the EU was “premature.” "We are dealing with a completely premature proposal," Gulyas said, adding that Hungary "cannot contribute to a common decision" on inviting Ukraine to begin the process of joining the bloc. The announcement comes days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate. Hungary threatens to block EU aid Earlier this week, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party, showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros. Watch: Will Hungary veto EU aid to Ukraine? × Both Ursula and Soros are favourite punching bags for the right-wing party. “We must say no because it is unsustainable, because it has no future. I am convinced that today, in Brussels, Europe is being destroyed and led to its ruins,” Orban told supporters. In early November, Orban had said that Ukraine was “light years” from joining the EU bloc. EU’s response to Ukraine’s membership bid Last month, the EU’s executive arm asked Ukraine to fix its governance issues and address concerns regarding corruption, the rights of minorities and lobbying. However, the biggest hurdle in the EU’s way remains achieving unanimity among the member states. Hungary has not only threatened to block the EU’s efforts to aid Ukraine but also questioned the bloc’s sanctions against Russia. Also read: Hungary dismisses museum director for exposing children to LGBT content Meanwhile, Hungary has also locked its horns with the EU over the ‘withholding’ of its funds. On Thursday, Gulyas also said Hungary would not support proposed amendments to the EU's budget, part of which would provide 50 billion euros ($54.5 billion) in long-term aid to Kyiv. He said the EU was "illegally" withholding funds from Hungary, and that the government would consequently decline to support any budget amendment. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary declares it will block EU’s aid to Ukraine, membership talks

The foreign affairs commission of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (Nov 16) delayed a vote on Sweden's NATO membership bid, again holding up the expansion of the inter-governmental military alliance.

The foreign affairs commission of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (Nov 16) delayed a vote on Sweden's NATO membership bid, again holding up the expansion of the inter-governmental military alliance. Addressing a press conference on Thursday, commission chairperson Fuat Oktay said the commission would hold further talks and may bring back the vote next week. However, Oktay did not set a clear timeline. "For all of our lawmakers to approve Sweden's NATO membership, they need to be fully convinced. We will discuss all of these in our (next) commission meeting (on the issue)," Oktay told reporters. He also said that the commission could pass bills by a simple majority, adding it might invite the Swedish ambassador to brief lawmakers if needed and if parliament's regulations allow. The postponement comes days after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he would try to facilitate the ratification process. Why the postponement? Thursday's vote on Sweden's membership of NATO was delayed after lawmakers from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Justice and Development Party submitted a motion for postponement on the grounds that some issues needed clarification and that negotiations with Sweden had not matured enough. For ratification, the membership bill needs to be approved by the Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission before being put to a full parliament vote, which could come days or weeks later. President Erdogan would then sign it into law to conclude the process. As Russia launched a war against Ukraine in February last year, Sweden and Finland made bids to join NATO. All 30 members of the inter-governmental military alliance have to ratify a country's membership. The process of Sweden and Finland joining NATO was held up by Turkey and Hungary. Earlier this year, Turkey and Hungary ratified Finland's bid, but both the member states have kept Sweden waiting. Now there are two reasons for the delay: > Turkey has accused Sweden of being too lenient towards groups that Ankara regards as threats to its security, including Kurdish militants and members of a network that Ankara blames for a failed coup in 2016. > Turkey has also been angered by a series of demonstrations by supporters of the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, in Sweden as well as Quran-burning protests. The delay also comes as Turkey has been at odds with its Western allies over the ongoing war between Israel and Gaza, and its tough diplomacy over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has also angered some allies. Turkey maintains good relations with Moscow and Kyiv, opposing Russia's invasion but also the Western sanctions on Russia. What concessions has Sweden made? During a NATO meeting in Madrid last year, Turkey struck an agreement with Sweden as well as Finland in which the two Nordic countries would lift arms embargoes and take measures against members of PKK, and the Gulen movement that Turkey holds responsible for the failed 2016 coup. Last year, Sweden reversed a ban on exporting military equipment to Turkey but did not reveal details of companies or products. In June this year, it introduced a new anti-terrorism bill that makes being a member of a terrorist organisation illegal, saying that it had upheld its part of the deal. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that in recent months, a top court in Sweden blocked the extradition of two Turks that Ankara said were Gulenists, while an appeals court upheld the conviction of a man for attempting to finance the PKK. And amid growing criticism of Turkey and other Muslim-majority countries over incidents of Quran burning, Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said that Stockholm was examining whether it could change the law to stop people from burning the Muslim holy book in public. Finland, meanwhile, agreed last year to consider granting arms export permits to Turkey on a case-by-case basis. What is the status of Sweden's NATO bid? The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission will now hold further discussions on Sweden's membership bill as soon as next week. If the commission backs the bill, Turkey's full general assembly would hold a vote, possibly within days or weeks, Reuters reported. On Tuesday, the speaker of Turkey's parliament told his Swedish counterpart they were hoping to complete ratification "as soon as possible." Since submitting the bill to parliament in October, Erdogan has said he will try to facilitate ratification but added that Stockholm still had not taken enough action against Kurdish militants. From Nov 28-29, NATO foreign ministers will meet in Brussels and before these dates, Sweden's membership bid has to be approved by Turkey as well as Hungary. However, Turkey is being seen as the main roadblock to Sweden's accession. On Thursday, the US ambassador to Hungary said he had been assured by the Hungarian government that Budapest would not be the last to ratify Sweden's bid, adding he was "confident" Stockholm would soon be a NATO member. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | With Turkey delaying Sweden's NATO bid, how has Stockholm addressed Ankara's concerns?

Hungary qualified for the Euro 2024 finals with a game to spare after a last-gasp own goal from Alex Petkov earned them a 2-2 away draw against Bulgaria in their qualifying Group G on Thursday.

The result put them on top of the group with 15 points from seven games, with an unassailable four-point lead over third-placed Montenegro.

Hungary took the lead through Martin Adam's close-range header following a free kick from captain Dominik Szoboszlai from the right after 10 minutes.

Marco Rossi's squad seemed close to doubling their lead, but on Bulgaria's first chance, Spas Delev scored with a shot into the top right corner to make it 1-1 in the 24th minute.

The hosts were dealt a blow before halftime when they were reduced to nine men after red cards for Valentin Antov and Ilia Gruev, but the VAR intervened to overturn the latter and keep hopes of a Bulgarian comeback alive.

Hungary were also reduced to 10 men early in the second half when Milos Kerkez was sent off and suffered a major setback in the 78th minute as Kiril Despodov scored with a penalty to give Bulgaria a 2-1 lead.

As Hungary got close to suffer their first defeat in a year, Petkov headed in his own goal from a corner seven minutes into stoppage time to send his team into their third consecutive European championship finals.

Montenegro secured a 2-0 win at home against Lithuania on Thursday, courtesy of goals from Edvin Kuc and Stevan Jovetic.

Hungary will host Montenegro on Sunday.

Hungary qualified for the Euro 2024 finals with a game to spare after a last-gasp own goal from Alex Petkov earned them a 2-2 away draw against Bulgaria in their qualifying Group G on Thursday.

Hungary qualified for the Euro 2024 finals with a game to spare after a last-gasp own goal from Alex Petkov earned them a 2-2 away draw against Bulgaria in their qualifying Group G on Thursday. The result put them on top of the group with 15 points from seven games, with an unassailable four-point lead over third-placed Montenegro. Hungary took the lead through Martin Adam's close-range header following a free kick from captain Dominik Szoboszlai from the right after 10 minutes. Marco Rossi's squad seemed close to doubling their lead, but on Bulgaria's first chance, Spas Delev scored with a shot into the top right corner to make it 1-1 in the 24th minute. The hosts were dealt a blow before halftime when they were reduced to nine men after red cards for Valentin Antov and Ilia Gruev, but the VAR intervened to overturn the latter and keep hopes of a Bulgarian comeback alive. Hungary were also reduced to 10 men early in the second half when Milos Kerkez was sent off and suffered a major setback in the 78th minute as Kiril Despodov scored with a penalty to give Bulgaria a 2-1 lead. As Hungary got close to suffer their first defeat in a year, Petkov headed in his own goal from a corner seven minutes into stoppage time to send his team into their third consecutive European championship finals. Montenegro secured a 2-0 win at home against Lithuania on Thursday, courtesy of goals from Edvin Kuc and Stevan Jovetic. Hungary will host Montenegro on Sunday.

Hungary qualify for Euro 2024 with dramatic 2-2 draw against Bulgaria

Putin has made Ukraine’s NATO ambitions & the bloc's eastward expansion the principal grounds for the Russian invasion of 2022. NATO members say Russia’s war has backfired, with Finland having joined the alliance & Sweden awaiting formal entry. The policy shift ended decades of both nations' respective non-aligned status. However, Slovakia, Bulgaria & Hungary have stood out as particularly pro-Russia in their attitudes. Bulgaria’s previous government had to secretly provide Kyiv with ammunition & fuel, concealing the facts from the public. After a call to send s-300 air defence systems to Ukraine, Bulgaria's pro-Russian president recently criticised the government & the parliament alike for becoming what he called donors to foreign armies. Hungary has officially refused to deliver arms to Ukraine, echoing the popular belief that doing so would drag these countries into the conflict. Remember, Hungary joined NATO in 1999, while Bulgaria & Slovakia joined the alliance in 2004.

NATO wrong on Russia's war backfiring? Slovakia, Bulgaria & Hungary pro-Russia in their attitudes

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has warned Ukraine that his government will not support Kyiv in any international issue until the language rights of ethnic Hungarians there are restored.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has warned Ukraine that his government will not support Kyiv in any international issue until the language rights of ethnic Hungarians there are restored. Speaking in parliament, Orban, a hardcore nationalist, pointed out the 2017 law passed by Kyiv which restricts the use of minority languages in schools. Orban believes the law curbs the rights of roughly 150,000 ethnic Hungarians to use their native tongue, especially in education. "They want to transform (Hungarian schools) into Ukrainian schools and if that does not work they want to close them," Orban was quoted as saying by Reuters. "We do not support Ukraine in any issue in the international scene until it restores the laws that guarantee the rights of Hungarians." Also read | 'Let us open doors...': Pope appeals Hungarians to be more receptive to migrants Orban's bargaining chip Orban's statement comes days after European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen suggested the vision of an expanded EU that would include Ukraine. The bloc is expected to decide on whether to begin discussions on assimilating Ukraine into its fold or not in December. However, to begin such a negotiation would require unanimous backing of all 27 countries in the bloc. With the Hungarian PM seemingly miffed by Ukraine, it looks highly unlikely that Kyiv would have smooth sailing on the issue. Budapest has already shown that it can use its decisive vote to lengthen proceedings. Sweden has been unable to become a NATO member for over a year due to Orban's unwillingness to ratify the move. Watch | Military exercise comes as Sweden starts its bid to join NATO × During the same speech, Orban touched upon the topic and said he was not in a rush to approve Sweden's bid to join NATO and that there was no threat to Sweden's security. Budapest has cited what it called undue allegations by Swedish politicians that it had eroded democratic rights. "I wonder if there is something urgent that would force us to ratify Sweden's NATO bid. I cannot see any such circumstance," Orban said. Notably, Sweden sped up its process to join the nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, last year. It submitted the official application in May but to become a member, all 30 NATO allies need to sign the ratification document. Every country has signed the document, bar Turkey and Hungary. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We do not support Ukraine...': Hungary PM Orban lashes out at Kyiv

Tensions are rising in eastern Europe as Ukraine prepares to take legal action against its neighboring countries in a trade dispute. Ukraine plans to sue Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia in the world trade organization over their bans on Ukrainian agricultural products.

Ukraine plans lawsuit against Poland, Hungary, & Slovakia | World Business Watch

Kyiv, on Monday (September 18) said it has filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against European Union (EU) nations, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, over their ban on Ukrainian grain imports. This comes&nbsp;after Ukrainian officials said that they plan to sue the three neighbouring countries for going against the European Commission’s decision.&nbsp;

<h2>About the lawsuit</h2>

The three Central European countries went against the European Commission’s decision&nbsp;on Friday (Sep 15) which ended restrictions on Ukrainian grains after Poland and Hungary said that they will be implementing their own ban on imports.

The move has since prompted Ukraine to take legal action that officials in Kyiv said they would for nearly a week.&nbsp;Yulia Svyrydenko, first deputy prime minister and economy minister, said Ukraine sees these restrictions as a violation of the EU nations’ international obligations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-ends-ban-on-ukraine-grain-exports-to-neighbouring-countries-636419">EU ends ban on Ukraine grain exports to neighbouring countries</a>

“It is crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods,” said Svyrydenko, in a statement. She added, “That is why we are filing lawsuits against them.”&nbsp;

“At the same time, we hope that these countries will lift their restrictions and we will not have to settle the matter in courts for a long time,” said the deputy PM, adding that Ukrainian exporters “continue to suffer significant losses” over the bans.&nbsp;

The restrictions in question were imposed by the EU back in May, which allowed Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian grains to protect their farmers who held the imports responsible for a drop in prices in local markets.

<h2>Poland stands its ground</h2>

The dispute over Ukrainian grain imports has led to an awkward diplomatic spat between Kyiv and Warsaw, which is Ukraine’s staunchest ally against Russia. Even after Ukraine filed the lawsuit, Poland said that it would maintain the ban.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-asks-eu-to-extend-embargo-on-ukraine-grain-kyiv-may-take-legal-action-over-restrictions-635355">Poland asks EU to extend embargo on Ukraine grain; Kyiv may take legal action over restrictions</a>

“We maintain our position, we think it is correct, it results from an economic analysis and powers derived from EU and international law,” said government spokesman Piotr Mueller on Polsat News, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

“A complaint before the WTO doesn’t impress us,” the Polish official added. Poland, whose ruling conservative Law and Justice party has sought to attract farmer voters for its campaign ahead of the upcoming elections, has previously said that the cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Kyiv, on Monday (September 18) said it has filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against European Union (EU) nations, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, over their ban on Ukrainian grain imports.

Kyiv, on Monday (September 18) said it has filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against European Union (EU) nations, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, over their ban on Ukrainian grain imports. This comes after Ukrainian officials said that they plan to sue the three neighbouring countries for going against the European Commission’s decision. About the lawsuit The three Central European countries went against the European Commission’s decision on Friday (Sep 15) which ended restrictions on Ukrainian grains after Poland and Hungary said that they will be implementing their own ban on imports. The move has since prompted Ukraine to take legal action that officials in Kyiv said they would for nearly a week. Yulia Svyrydenko, first deputy prime minister and economy minister, said Ukraine sees these restrictions as a violation of the EU nations’ international obligations. ALSO READ | EU ends ban on Ukraine grain exports to neighbouring countries “It is crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods,” said Svyrydenko, in a statement. She added, “That is why we are filing lawsuits against them.” “At the same time, we hope that these countries will lift their restrictions and we will not have to settle the matter in courts for a long time,” said the deputy PM, adding that Ukrainian exporters “continue to suffer significant losses” over the bans. The restrictions in question were imposed by the EU back in May, which allowed Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian grains to protect their farmers who held the imports responsible for a drop in prices in local markets. Poland stands its ground The dispute over Ukrainian grain imports has led to an awkward diplomatic spat between Kyiv and Warsaw, which is Ukraine’s staunchest ally against Russia. Even after Ukraine filed the lawsuit, Poland said that it would maintain the ban. ALSO READ | Poland asks EU to extend embargo on Ukraine grain; Kyiv may take legal action over restrictions “We maintain our position, we think it is correct, it results from an economic analysis and powers derived from EU and international law,” said government spokesman Piotr Mueller on Polsat News, as quoted by news agency AFP. “A complaint before the WTO doesn’t impress us,” the Polish official added. Poland, whose ruling conservative Law and Justice party has sought to attract farmer voters for its campaign ahead of the upcoming elections, has previously said that the cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine files lawsuit against Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over grain import ban

Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, according to Ukrainian officials who told Reuters on Monday.

According to a source, the plea might be submitted "in the near future" and came after the three nations surrounding Ukraine decided to restrict imports of many of its main exports.

Earlier on Monday, Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka was quoted by Politico as indicating in an interview that Kyiv intended to sue the three nations.

Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and other countries were able to apply restrictions in May that prevented the domestic sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds while allowing the transit of such cargoes for export to other countries.

Following the executive European Commission's decision not to extend its embargo on imports into Ukraine's five EU neighbours, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary announced their own limitations on the purchase of Ukrainian grain on Friday.

According to Warsaw, Bratislava, and Budapest, such actions are being taken to benefit their local businesses and farmers.

According to Kachka, if Warsaw continued with its extra steps, Ukraine may apply reciprocal restrictions on the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland.

According to Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus, the restriction in Warsaw now extends to meals made from the following cereals: maize, wheat and rapeseed.

The leader of Poland's parliamentary foreign affairs department, Radoslaw Fogiel, was quoted by PAP as stating that Ukraine's plan to suit will "reverberate badly in Poland" and that Ukraine should be aware of this.

"Our decision is not aimed at Ukraine, it is dictated by the protection of the Polish farmer and the protection of Poland's interests," Reuters quoted him as saying.

After Ukraine announced it will take steps to tighten supervision of shipments to neighbouring countries, the EU permitted its ban to expire on Friday.

According to Kachka, Kiev would enact a system of "real time" export licences for grains and was prepared to "take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries."

According to data from the farm ministry, 1.4 million tonnes of farm products from Ukraine, out of a total export volume of 4.5 million tons—left the country by train in the first quarter of the 2023–24 July to June season. Train crossings with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are used by Ukraine to transport grain. Additionally, Ukraine transported 1 million tonnes of additional oils and oilseeds by rail.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, according to Ukrainian officials who told Reuters on Monday.

Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, according to Ukrainian officials who told Reuters on Monday. According to a source, the plea might be submitted "in the near future" and came after the three nations surrounding Ukraine decided to restrict imports of many of its main exports. Earlier on Monday, Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka was quoted by Politico as indicating in an interview that Kyiv intended to sue the three nations. Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and other countries were able to apply restrictions in May that prevented the domestic sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds while allowing the transit of such cargoes for export to other countries. Following the executive European Commission's decision not to extend its embargo on imports into Ukraine's five EU neighbours, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary announced their own limitations on the purchase of Ukrainian grain on Friday. According to Warsaw, Bratislava, and Budapest, such actions are being taken to benefit their local businesses and farmers. According to Kachka, if Warsaw continued with its extra steps, Ukraine may apply reciprocal restrictions on the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland. According to Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus, the restriction in Warsaw now extends to meals made from the following cereals: maize, wheat and rapeseed. The leader of Poland's parliamentary foreign affairs department, Radoslaw Fogiel, was quoted by PAP as stating that Ukraine's plan to suit will "reverberate badly in Poland" and that Ukraine should be aware of this. "Our decision is not aimed at Ukraine, it is dictated by the protection of the Polish farmer and the protection of Poland's interests," Reuters quoted him as saying. After Ukraine announced it will take steps to tighten supervision of shipments to neighbouring countries, the EU permitted its ban to expire on Friday. According to Kachka, Kiev would enact a system of "real time" export licences for grains and was prepared to "take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries." According to data from the farm ministry, 1.4 million tonnes of farm products from Ukraine, out of a total export volume of 4.5 million tons—left the country by train in the first quarter of the 2023–24 July to June season. Train crossings with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are used by Ukraine to transport grain. Additionally, Ukraine transported 1 million tonnes of additional oils and oilseeds by rail. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine looking to sue Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia over their bans on food imports

At least six people were killed in Slovenia currently witnessing the worst floods on record which have swept away homes and clogged villages with debris, while the clean-up operations continued&nbsp;on Monday (August 7), said the local officials and media.&nbsp;

<h2>Record-breaking rains and floods</h2>

Heavy rains in central and northern Slovenia have led to flash floods and landslides which began on Thursday and have since submerged large parts of the region, cutting off access to villages and disrupting traffic.

So far, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-3-killed-amid-heavy-rains-floods-in-slovenia-and-austria-622506">two Dutch men</a> believed struck by lightning and four Slovenians have been killed or drowned in the chaos, since Friday, reported state news agency STA citing police.&nbsp;

Emergency workers recovered the body of a 35-year-old man in a river near the village of Mirna Perc, on Sunday. According to the police, another man, who was a part of the clean-up operations, was found dead after falling into a cesspit near the town of Kamnik.&nbsp;

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/slovenia-pm-worst-disaster-in-our-history-622951">described</a> the torrential rains and severe flooding, that the country of two million is witnessing, as its worst natural disaster since independence three decades ago.

In an update, on Monday, reports said that the rescue workers were in the midst of trying to reopen roads to the isolated places and were also assessing the damage. The Slovenian Environment Agency said floods were starting to recede on Monday, but some areas were still cut off.

Meanwhile, civil protection authorities were keeping an eye on flood-hit areas where landslides pose a threat to infrastructure and houses. This comes as residents from villages along the river Mura had to be evacuated on Sunday night after a part of the levee collapsed.

The body of a man was also recovered in the neighbouring country Austria from a river in Carinthia state, parts of which have also been affected due to heavy rains and floods.&nbsp;

<h2>What’s the damage?</h2>

According to reports, the damage to buildings and bridges caused by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-not-a-typical-flood-event-heavy-rains-landslides-hit-in-parts-of-slovenia-austria-622517">floods</a> is worth around $549 million. “The material damage is not so important. The important thing is we saved our lives on time,” said Drago Hudofisk, in the village of Prevalje, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

As per the media report, Hudofisk is part of an eight-member family home that was swept away by a river over the weekend. “You know, nature fights back against everything (we do). Water has the power, it destroys everything,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>EU countries help disaster-hit Slovenia</h2>

Slovenia, a European Union member, has asked for help from the 27-nation bloc and sought heavy machinery, such as excavators and engineering units. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she will visit Slovenia on Wednesday, “to witness on the ground the destruction caused by the floods and discuss EU support.”&nbsp;

Slovenia also requested helicopters, soldiers and prefabricated bridges from NATO. Meanwhile, the first truck carrying humanitarian help and food arrived from Hungary late Sunday, followed by a helicopter.&nbsp;

Croatia also provided a military helicopter to help close and secure a broken levee on the Mura River. Germany said it is sending emergency workers and expressed “dismay” over the “terrible flood catastrophe in Slovenia and Austria.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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At least six people were killed in Slovenia currently witnessing the worst floods on record which have swept away homes and clogged villages with debris, while the clean-up operations continued on Monday (August 7), said the local officials and media.

At least six people were killed in Slovenia currently witnessing the worst floods on record which have swept away homes and clogged villages with debris, while the clean-up operations continued on Monday (August 7), said the local officials and media. Record-breaking rains and floods Heavy rains in central and northern Slovenia have led to flash floods and landslides which began on Thursday and have since submerged large parts of the region, cutting off access to villages and disrupting traffic. So far, two Dutch men believed struck by lightning and four Slovenians have been killed or drowned in the chaos, since Friday, reported state news agency STA citing police. Emergency workers recovered the body of a 35-year-old man in a river near the village of Mirna Perc, on Sunday. According to the police, another man, who was a part of the clean-up operations, was found dead after falling into a cesspit near the town of Kamnik. Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob has described the torrential rains and severe flooding, that the country of two million is witnessing, as its worst natural disaster since independence three decades ago. In an update, on Monday, reports said that the rescue workers were in the midst of trying to reopen roads to the isolated places and were also assessing the damage. The Slovenian Environment Agency said floods were starting to recede on Monday, but some areas were still cut off. Meanwhile, civil protection authorities were keeping an eye on flood-hit areas where landslides pose a threat to infrastructure and houses. This comes as residents from villages along the river Mura had to be evacuated on Sunday night after a part of the levee collapsed. The body of a man was also recovered in the neighbouring country Austria from a river in Carinthia state, parts of which have also been affected due to heavy rains and floods. What’s the damage? According to reports, the damage to buildings and bridges caused by the floods is worth around $549 million. “The material damage is not so important. The important thing is we saved our lives on time,” said Drago Hudofisk, in the village of Prevalje, as quoted by Reuters. As per the media report, Hudofisk is part of an eight-member family home that was swept away by a river over the weekend. “You know, nature fights back against everything (we do). Water has the power, it destroys everything,” he added. EU countries help disaster-hit Slovenia Slovenia, a European Union member, has asked for help from the 27-nation bloc and sought heavy machinery, such as excavators and engineering units. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she will visit Slovenia on Wednesday, “to witness on the ground the destruction caused by the floods and discuss EU support.” Slovenia also requested helicopters, soldiers and prefabricated bridges from NATO. Meanwhile, the first truck carrying humanitarian help and food arrived from Hungary late Sunday, followed by a helicopter. Croatia also provided a military helicopter to help close and secure a broken levee on the Mura River. Germany said it is sending emergency workers and expressed “dismay” over the “terrible flood catastrophe in Slovenia and Austria.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Death toll rises to six after Slovenia’s worst floods on record, EU and NATO to send aid

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban launched a fresh attack on the European Union for conducting an "LGBTQ offensive", releasing a statement saying that his nationalist government would safeguard the country's Christian roots.

During his speech, the Hungarian Prime Minister also said that he hoped the European parliament elections, which are scheduled to take place next year, would bolster governments within the bloc that nullify the "federalism" illustrated by Germany and France.

Orban had passed a law in the year 2021 barring the use of materials seen as encouraging homosexuality and gender change at schools, mentioning the need to safeguard children from "LGBTQ propaganda" and thereby mounting a row with the European Union.

In the past, he has also engaged in conflicts with Brussels over other issues, including the rule of law, and reforms to Hungary's media and the judiciary.

The EU is "either an empire or (individual) nations ... We should not have any illusions: the federalists are trying to squeeze us out," Orban said.

&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-crisis-greece-faces-hottest-july-weekend-in-50-yrs-heatwave-to-expand-in-us-618408">Climate crisis: Greece faces hottest July weekend in 50 yrs; heatwave to expand in US</a>

"They openly wanted a change in government (in 2022) in Hungary," Orban said, adding that the same was now true of Poland.

Poland's parliamentary elections are scheduled for this autumn season when the conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party will seek a third term.&nbsp;

It has adopted many policies that intonate with Orban's, and both countries are sealed in a rule-of-law conflict with the bloc that has resulted in the hiatus of certain European Union funds.

Orban said a balance between federalists and nations unwilling to cede more powers to Brussels was upset when Britain left the bloc, and now only Warsaw and Budapest were "sticking to their (anti-federalist) stance."

He has meanwhile upped his anti-LGBT oratory as Hungary's economic troubles have spiralled. Annual inflation topped 25% in the first quarter.

"The EU rejects Christian heritage, carries out a replacement of its population via migration ... and conducts an LGBTQ offensive," he said on Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban launched a fresh attack on the European Union for conducting an "LGBTQ offensive", releasing a statement saying that his nationalist government would safeguard the country's Christian roots.

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban launched a fresh attack on the European Union for conducting an "LGBTQ offensive", releasing a statement saying that his nationalist government would safeguard the country's Christian roots. During his speech, the Hungarian Prime Minister also said that he hoped the European parliament elections, which are scheduled to take place next year, would bolster governments within the bloc that nullify the "federalism" illustrated by Germany and France. Orban had passed a law in the year 2021 barring the use of materials seen as encouraging homosexuality and gender change at schools, mentioning the need to safeguard children from "LGBTQ propaganda" and thereby mounting a row with the European Union. In the past, he has also engaged in conflicts with Brussels over other issues, including the rule of law, and reforms to Hungary's media and the judiciary. The EU is "either an empire or (individual) nations ... We should not have any illusions: the federalists are trying to squeeze us out," Orban said. Also read: Climate crisis: Greece faces hottest July weekend in 50 yrs; heatwave to expand in US "They openly wanted a change in government (in 2022) in Hungary," Orban said, adding that the same was now true of Poland. Poland's parliamentary elections are scheduled for this autumn season when the conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party will seek a third term. It has adopted many policies that intonate with Orban's, and both countries are sealed in a rule-of-law conflict with the bloc that has resulted in the hiatus of certain European Union funds. Orban said a balance between federalists and nations unwilling to cede more powers to Brussels was upset when Britain left the bloc, and now only Warsaw and Budapest were "sticking to their (anti-federalist) stance." He has meanwhile upped his anti-LGBT oratory as Hungary's economic troubles have spiralled. Annual inflation topped 25% in the first quarter. "The EU rejects Christian heritage, carries out a replacement of its population via migration ... and conducts an LGBTQ offensive," he said on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban condemns European Union federalism, LGBTQ 'offensive'

Peter Szijjarto, Foreign Affairs Minister of Hungary on WION: Indian investors are important for Hungary.

"Indian investors are important for Hungary," says Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto

Thousands of Hungarians flooded the streets of Budapest as the Annual Pride Parade was hosted in the Hungarian Capital. Although pride month is over the supporters of LGBTQ+ rights marched to protest against the government's new rule that bans public display of homosexuality.

US ambassador to Hungary joins Budapest's Annual Pride March

In pics | Thousands march for Budapest Pride, protest against govt's anti-LGBT moves

Hungary’s second-largest book store Lira is finding itself caught up in legal troubles after allegedly selling LGBT-themed British webcomic and graphic novels without closed wrapping. The book is aimed at teenagers and its story revolves around two gay teens who fall in love.

The popular story has also been adapted by Netflix as a romantic comedy-drama. A Budapest government office on Thursday imposed a 12 million forints ($36,000) fine on Lira, claiming that the bookstore had violated the country’s LGBT law. However, Lira has firmly denied all the charges and expressed its intentions to lock horns with the government on the legal battlefield.

<h2>Lira to fight legal battle</h2>

The creative director of Lira, Krisztian Nyary, was quoted by CNN as saying that the government cited vague laws to frame charges against the company and the hefty fine imposed was disproportionate. “As this is a resolution about a fine it cannot be appealed, it can only be attacked – in what way, our lawyers will assess. We will use all legal means at our disposal,” he said.

<h2>Vague laws</h2>

Several publishers have taken the initiative to voluntarily wrap their books in an attempt to comply with the controversial law in Hungary. However, it remains unclear whether this measure alone is sufficient to categorise the affected books as intended for adult readers.

Another point of contention is whether LGBT-themed books designed for adult audiences will also be required to be wrapped or if they can be sold without packaging.

Watch:&nbsp;Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President?

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The lack of clarity surrounding these issues has led to confusion and uncertainty among publishers and booksellers.

<h2>Laws criticised by EU and human rights organisations</h2>

Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, and his government have been actively promoting a Christian-conservative agenda. In 2021, it passed a law prohibiting the "display and promotion of homosexuality" to individuals under the age of 18. This legislation faced strong criticism from human rights organisations and the European Union.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-lawmakers-pass-new-law-allowing-locals-to-report-anonymously-on-same-sex-couples-582433">Also read:&nbsp;Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples</a>

The law was perceived as a strategy to appeal to Orban's conservative supporters in rural areas leading up to his successful re-election for a fourth term in 2022.

The European Commission responded by referring Hungary to the EU Court of Justice, arguing that the law "discriminates against people based on their sexual orientation and gender identity."

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Hungary’s second-largest book store Lira is finding itself caught up in legal troubles after allegedly selling LGBT-themed British webcomic and graphic novels without closed wrapping.

Hungary’s second-largest book store Lira is finding itself caught up in legal troubles after allegedly selling LGBT-themed British webcomic and graphic novels without closed wrapping. The book is aimed at teenagers and its story revolves around two gay teens who fall in love. The popular story has also been adapted by Netflix as a romantic comedy-drama. A Budapest government office on Thursday imposed a 12 million forints ($36,000) fine on Lira, claiming that the bookstore had violated the country’s LGBT law. However, Lira has firmly denied all the charges and expressed its intentions to lock horns with the government on the legal battlefield. Lira to fight legal battle The creative director of Lira, Krisztian Nyary, was quoted by CNN as saying that the government cited vague laws to frame charges against the company and the hefty fine imposed was disproportionate. “As this is a resolution about a fine it cannot be appealed, it can only be attacked – in what way, our lawyers will assess. We will use all legal means at our disposal,” he said. Vague laws Several publishers have taken the initiative to voluntarily wrap their books in an attempt to comply with the controversial law in Hungary. However, it remains unclear whether this measure alone is sufficient to categorise the affected books as intended for adult readers. Another point of contention is whether LGBT-themed books designed for adult audiences will also be required to be wrapped or if they can be sold without packaging. Watch: Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President? × The lack of clarity surrounding these issues has led to confusion and uncertainty among publishers and booksellers. Laws criticised by EU and human rights organisations Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, and his government have been actively promoting a Christian-conservative agenda. In 2021, it passed a law prohibiting the "display and promotion of homosexuality" to individuals under the age of 18. This legislation faced strong criticism from human rights organisations and the European Union. Also read: Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples The law was perceived as a strategy to appeal to Orban's conservative supporters in rural areas leading up to his successful re-election for a fourth term in 2022. The European Commission responded by referring Hungary to the EU Court of Justice, arguing that the law "discriminates against people based on their sexual orientation and gender identity." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hungary imposes heavy fine on book store for selling LGBT-themed book

Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions.

Citing overcrowded prisons, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government issued a decree in April allowing the release of foreign nationals convicted of people smuggling, on condition that they leave Hungary within 72 hours once freed.

The move drew a protest from neighbouring Austria, a top destination for smuggled migrants heading for the heart of the European Union via Hungary from the Balkans. Vienna said it regards the release of human traffickers as a security threat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-lawmakers-pass-new-law-allowing-locals-to-report-anonymously-on-same-sex-couples-582433">Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples</a>

The Hungarian prison directorate (BvOP) said there were 2,636 people convicted of human trafficking in Hungarian prisons, of whom 808 were foreign citizens eligible for the release.

"Incarcerating foreign nationals costs Hungarian prisons billions of forints each year," the BvOP press office said in its emailed reply.

It said that if those released do not leave Hungary's territory within 72 hours and are caught by police, they would have to remain in prison for the full term of their sentence.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President?

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For many migrants, the Hungarian route remains an appealing one despite stepped-up border police patrols and a steel fence built by Hungary after the EU's 2015 migration crisis on its southern border with Serbia.

Once in Hungary, migrants can move across generally open borders within Europe's Schengen zone to wealthier western EU countries like Austria or Germany.

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Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions.

Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions. Citing overcrowded prisons, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government issued a decree in April allowing the release of foreign nationals convicted of people smuggling, on condition that they leave Hungary within 72 hours once freed. The move drew a protest from neighbouring Austria, a top destination for smuggled migrants heading for the heart of the European Union via Hungary from the Balkans. Vienna said it regards the release of human traffickers as a security threat. ALSO READ | Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples The Hungarian prison directorate (BvOP) said there were 2,636 people convicted of human trafficking in Hungarian prisons, of whom 808 were foreign citizens eligible for the release. "Incarcerating foreign nationals costs Hungarian prisons billions of forints each year," the BvOP press office said in its emailed reply. It said that if those released do not leave Hungary's territory within 72 hours and are caught by police, they would have to remain in prison for the full term of their sentence. WATCH | Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President? × For many migrants, the Hungarian route remains an appealing one despite stepped-up border police patrols and a steel fence built by Hungary after the EU's 2015 migration crisis on its southern border with Serbia. Once in Hungary, migrants can move across generally open borders within Europe's Schengen zone to wealthier western EU countries like Austria or Germany. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hungary frees 777 foreigners convicted of human-trafficking

Viktor Orbán, the Hungarian PM is calling for Donald Trump’s return to office. He claims that their shared brand of hard-right populism is on the rise worldwide. Watch this video for all details.

Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President?

Pope Francis, on his three-day visit to Hungary, headed a big outdoor Mass where he urged people to not close the door on migrants and those who are "foreign or unlike us," contrary to the anti-immigrant policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Over 50,000 people gathered in and around the square behind Budapest's iconic neo-gothic parliament building to see the ope on the last day of his visit.

"I really like the holy mass and the speech he gave, and I felt that he meant many parts specifically for us in his speech,” one of the mass attendees said.

Francis said that if Hungarians wanted to follow Jesus, they will have to shun "the closed doors of our individualism amid a society of growing isolation; the closed doors of our indifference towards the underprivileged and those who suffer; the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor".&nbsp;

He said that migrants escaping poverty should also be welcomed because they can culturally enrich the host countries and also boost Europe's declining populations.

<h2>'Vatican involved in secret peace mission to end conflict between Russia and Ukraine': Pope</h2>

On Sunday, Pope Francis said that Vatican is involved in a peace mission aiming to end the conflict, tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

"There is a mission in course now but it is not yet public. When it is public, I will reveal it," the pope told reporters during a flight home after his visit to Hungary.

"I think that peace is always made by opening channels. You can never achieve peace through closure. ... This is not easy."

He also spoke about the situation in Ukraine with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and with Metropolitan (bishop) Hilarion, a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church in Budapest.

"In these meetings, we did not just talk about Little Red Riding Hood. We spoke of all these things. Everyone is interested in the road to peace," he said.

Pope had previously said that he wanted to visit Kyiv and Moscow on a peace mission.

On Thursday, Ukraine Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met the pope at the Vatican and said that he had discussed a "peace formula" put forward by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

"The Holy See is willing to do this (help repatriate the children) because it is the right thing," Francis said on the plane. "All human gestures help but gestures of cruelty don't help. We have to do all that is humanly possible".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis, on his three-day visit to Hungary, headed a big outdoor Mass where he urged people to not close the door on migrants and those who are "foreign or unlike us," contrary to the anti-immigrant policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Pope Francis, on his three-day visit to Hungary, headed a big outdoor Mass where he urged people to not close the door on migrants and those who are "foreign or unlike us," contrary to the anti-immigrant policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Over 50,000 people gathered in and around the square behind Budapest's iconic neo-gothic parliament building to see the ope on the last day of his visit. "I really like the holy mass and the speech he gave, and I felt that he meant many parts specifically for us in his speech,” one of the mass attendees said. Francis said that if Hungarians wanted to follow Jesus, they will have to shun "the closed doors of our individualism amid a society of growing isolation; the closed doors of our indifference towards the underprivileged and those who suffer; the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor". He said that migrants escaping poverty should also be welcomed because they can culturally enrich the host countries and also boost Europe's declining populations. 'Vatican involved in secret peace mission to end conflict between Russia and Ukraine': Pope On Sunday, Pope Francis said that Vatican is involved in a peace mission aiming to end the conflict, tensions between Russia and Ukraine. "There is a mission in course now but it is not yet public. When it is public, I will reveal it," the pope told reporters during a flight home after his visit to Hungary. "I think that peace is always made by opening channels. You can never achieve peace through closure. ... This is not easy." He also spoke about the situation in Ukraine with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and with Metropolitan (bishop) Hilarion, a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church in Budapest. "In these meetings, we did not just talk about Little Red Riding Hood. We spoke of all these things. Everyone is interested in the road to peace," he said. Pope had previously said that he wanted to visit Kyiv and Moscow on a peace mission. On Thursday, Ukraine Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met the pope at the Vatican and said that he had discussed a "peace formula" put forward by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. "The Holy See is willing to do this (help repatriate the children) because it is the right thing," Francis said on the plane. "All human gestures help but gestures of cruelty don't help. We have to do all that is humanly possible". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pope Francis urges Hungarians to not close door on migrants

Pope Francis&nbsp;on Sunday called upon Hungarians to be ‘open’ towards migrants. The&nbsp;head of the Roman Catholic Church was wrapping up his three-day visit to the central European country when he made the statement.&nbsp;

"Let us encourage one another to be increasingly open doors," the 86-year-old Argentine pontiff said, adding it was "sad and painful... to see closed doors".

"The closed doors of our selfishness with regard to others...the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor."

On Sunday, some 50,000 people thronged to hear the pope say mass under tight security at Kossuth Lajos Square, behind the parliament on the banks of the Danube, according to local authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-on-a-three-day-visit-to-hungary-meets-ukrainian-refugees-587426">WATCH |&nbsp;Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees</a>

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Pope's statement assumes significance, especially in the backdrop of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban adopting a tough stance on immigration. In a 2018 interview, Orban referred to Muslim refugees as Muslim invaders who started parallel societies.&nbsp;

"We don't see these people as Muslim refugees. We see them as Muslim invaders. We believe that a large number of Muslims inevitably leads to parallel societies, because Christian and Muslim society will never unite." Multiculturalism, he said, "is only an illusion."

After the European Union forced Budapest to shut down its so-called border transit zones that Brussels termed 'detention camps', the country has been only accepting asylum seekers' applications at Hungarian embassies abroad which has slowed down the number of asylum seekers.&nbsp;

Throughout his visit, Francis has emphasised on welcoming those who are fleeing their home countries to find some kind of normalcy.&nbsp;On the second day of the visit,&nbsp;Pope urged the people to,&nbsp;"help to uproot the evils of indifference and selfishness from society, from our cities and the places where we live, and to rekindle hope for a new, more just and fraternal world."

<h2>Pope's second visit to Hungary</h2>

The pope last visited Hungary in 2021 where 39 per cent of the 9.7-million-strong population is catholic. The visit comes nearly a month after he was hospitalised for a serious&nbsp;bronchitis infection.&nbsp;

Pope on multiple occasions has hinted that he may step down, akin to his predecessor Benedict XVI due to poor health.&nbsp;

“I don’t think I can continue doing trips with the same rhythm as before. I think that at my age and with this limitation I have to preserve (my strength) a bit in order to be able to serve the Church, or decide to step aside," he was quoted as saying last year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-presides-over-palm-sunday-mass-a-day-after-being-discharged-from-hospital-578253">ALSO READ |&nbsp;'I thank you': Pope Francis presides over Palm Sunday mass, a day after being discharged from hospital</a>

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Pope Francis on Sunday called upon Hungarians to be ‘open’ towards migrants. The head of the Roman Catholic Church was wrapping up his three-day visit to the central European country when he made the statement.

Pope Francis on Sunday called upon Hungarians to be ‘open’ towards migrants. The head of the Roman Catholic Church was wrapping up his three-day visit to the central European country when he made the statement. "Let us encourage one another to be increasingly open doors," the 86-year-old Argentine pontiff said, adding it was "sad and painful... to see closed doors". "The closed doors of our selfishness with regard to others...the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor." On Sunday, some 50,000 people thronged to hear the pope say mass under tight security at Kossuth Lajos Square, behind the parliament on the banks of the Danube, according to local authorities. WATCH | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees × Pope's statement assumes significance, especially in the backdrop of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban adopting a tough stance on immigration. In a 2018 interview, Orban referred to Muslim refugees as Muslim invaders who started parallel societies. "We don't see these people as Muslim refugees. We see them as Muslim invaders. We believe that a large number of Muslims inevitably leads to parallel societies, because Christian and Muslim society will never unite." Multiculturalism, he said, "is only an illusion." After the European Union forced Budapest to shut down its so-called border transit zones that Brussels termed 'detention camps', the country has been only accepting asylum seekers' applications at Hungarian embassies abroad which has slowed down the number of asylum seekers. Throughout his visit, Francis has emphasised on welcoming those who are fleeing their home countries to find some kind of normalcy. On the second day of the visit, Pope urged the people to, "help to uproot the evils of indifference and selfishness from society, from our cities and the places where we live, and to rekindle hope for a new, more just and fraternal world." Pope's second visit to Hungary The pope last visited Hungary in 2021 where 39 per cent of the 9.7-million-strong population is catholic. The visit comes nearly a month after he was hospitalised for a serious bronchitis infection. Pope on multiple occasions has hinted that he may step down, akin to his predecessor Benedict XVI due to poor health. “I don’t think I can continue doing trips with the same rhythm as before. I think that at my age and with this limitation I have to preserve (my strength) a bit in order to be able to serve the Church, or decide to step aside," he was quoted as saying last year. ALSO READ | 'I thank you': Pope Francis presides over Palm Sunday mass, a day after being discharged from hospital (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Let us open doors...': Pope appeals Hungarians to be more receptive to migrants

Speaking to Hungarian civil authorities in Budapest, “a city of bridges,” Pope Francis on Friday challenged the nations of Europe to recapture a spirit of fraternal unity and pursue “creative efforts for peace.”

Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees

In order to safeguard their domestic agricultural industry, Poland and Hungary have decided to forbid the import of wheat and other food products from the neighboring Ukraine. As a response to the Polish announcement, Ukraine expressed regret for the choice. The decision was made as a result of the growing problem that Ukrainian food imports have caused for local farmers in both countries.

Poland and Hungary announce import ban on Ukrainian food to protect local agricultural sector

This week Hungarian lawmakers passed a bill that will allow citizens&nbsp;anonymously to report on same-sex couples who raise children. This comes as Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has been curbing the rights of the country's LGBTQ community in adopting kids.&nbsp;

Under this approved bill, people are allowed to contest the "institutionally recognised role of marriage and the family" and those who contest children's rights "to an identity appropiate to their sex at birth."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-arrests-chinese-lgbtq-blogger-for-violating-same-sex-propaganda-law-580401">Also read |&nbsp;Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law</a>

The country's constitution protects the "institution of marriage a formation between a man and a woman and also specifies the mother is a woman and the father is a man."

This latest bill also covers wide-ranging measures to make sure authorities and officials investigate complaints over everything from alleged workplace misconduct to corruption.

Watch |&nbsp;Hungary's parliament passes law effectively banning same-sex adoption

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With increasing curbs on the rights of LGBTQ people, Hungary was cut off from European Union funding. In 2022, the European Commission brought a lawsuit before the European Court of Justice against Hungary for a 2021 law that discriminates against the LGTBQ community A majority of member states have joined the commission's side.&nbsp;

Back in 2020, the Hungarian parliament passed a law effectively banning same-sex couples from adopting. Justice Minister Judit Varga said that the main rule is that only married couples can adopt a child, that is, a man and a woman who are married. The constitution now states that parents must raise their children in a conservative spirit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-parliament-backs-finlands-nato-accession-576377">Also read |&nbsp;Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession</a>

It states "Hungary defends the right of children to identify with their birth gender and ensures their upbringing based on our nation's constitutional identity and values based on our Christian culture."

Additionally, single people would require special approval from the government to adopt kids.&nbsp;

In May of the same year, Hungary's parliament approved a law that banned transgender people from changing the sex observed at birth on their official documents.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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This week Hungarian lawmakers passed a bill that will allow citizens anonymously to report on same-sex couples who raise children. This comes as Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has been curbing the rights of the country's LGBTQ community in adopting kids.

This week Hungarian lawmakers passed a bill that will allow citizens anonymously to report on same-sex couples who raise children. This comes as Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has been curbing the rights of the country's LGBTQ community in adopting kids. Under this approved bill, people are allowed to contest the "institutionally recognised role of marriage and the family" and those who contest children's rights "to an identity appropiate to their sex at birth." Also read | Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law The country's constitution protects the "institution of marriage a formation between a man and a woman and also specifies the mother is a woman and the father is a man." This latest bill also covers wide-ranging measures to make sure authorities and officials investigate complaints over everything from alleged workplace misconduct to corruption. Watch | Hungary's parliament passes law effectively banning same-sex adoption With increasing curbs on the rights of LGBTQ people, Hungary was cut off from European Union funding. In 2022, the European Commission brought a lawsuit before the European Court of Justice against Hungary for a 2021 law that discriminates against the LGTBQ community A majority of member states have joined the commission's side. Back in 2020, the Hungarian parliament passed a law effectively banning same-sex couples from adopting. Justice Minister Judit Varga said that the main rule is that only married couples can adopt a child, that is, a man and a woman who are married. The constitution now states that parents must raise their children in a conservative spirit. Also read | Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession It states "Hungary defends the right of children to identify with their birth gender and ensures their upbringing based on our nation's constitutional identity and values based on our Christian culture." Additionally, single people would require special approval from the government to adopt kids. In May of the same year, Hungary's parliament approved a law that banned transgender people from changing the sex observed at birth on their official documents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples

The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance. The approval ends months of foot-dragging by the ruling Fidesz party on the matter.&nbsp;

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin tweeted after the vote, she said: "Thank you for the decision with clear numbers!"&nbsp;

With 182 votes versus six against, a large majority of lawmakers approved the accession of the Nordic country into the military alliance.&nbsp;

The vote means that 29 out of 30 NATO member state parliaments have ratified Finland's accession. The last will be Turkey's assembly, which is expected to also give Helsinki the nod next month.

Initially, Finland aimed to join together with fellow NATO aspirant Sweden, a Nordic power facing a litany of disputes with Turkey that ultimately sunk its chance to join the bloc before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus&nbsp;

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"The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden will strengthen the security of the whole Alliance. It is in everyone's interest that Sweden also becomes a member of NATO before the Vilnius Summit," said Marin.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.&nbsp;

After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance.

The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance. The approval ends months of foot-dragging by the ruling Fidesz party on the matter. Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin tweeted after the vote, she said: "Thank you for the decision with clear numbers!" With 182 votes versus six against, a large majority of lawmakers approved the accession of the Nordic country into the military alliance. The vote means that 29 out of 30 NATO member state parliaments have ratified Finland's accession. The last will be Turkey's assembly, which is expected to also give Helsinki the nod next month. Initially, Finland aimed to join together with fellow NATO aspirant Sweden, a Nordic power facing a litany of disputes with Turkey that ultimately sunk its chance to join the bloc before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus × "The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden will strengthen the security of the whole Alliance. It is in everyone's interest that Sweden also becomes a member of NATO before the Vilnius Summit," said Marin. Earlier this month, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April. After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession

Turkey and Hungary both signaled they plan to ratify Finland’s entry into NATO, bringing the military alliance a step closer to welcoming its 31st member as the ripples from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine spread across the European security landscape.

NATO edges closer to expansion as Finland wins over holdouts

Ukrainian foreign ministry said on Tuesday (November 22) that Ukraine will summon Hungarian ambassador to lodge a protest over Hungary PM Viktor Orban wearing a scarf depicting some Ukrainian territory as part of Hungary. &nbsp;Orban wore the scarf at a football match.&nbsp;

Images in Ukrainian media showed Orban meeting a Hungarian footballer while wearing the scarf. News outlet Ukrainiska pravda said that the scarf depicted. a map of "Greater Hungary". The scarf reportedly also showed some territories of Austria, Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, Serbia as part of Hungary.

"The promotion of revisionism ideas in Hungary does not contribute to the development of Ukrainian-Hungarian relations and does not comply with the principles of European policy," Ukrainian ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko wrote on Facebook.

He said that Ukraine wanted an apology and and a rebuttal.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Orban did not directly address the controversy over the scarf.

"Soccer is not politics. Do not read things into it that are not there," he wrote. "The Hungarian national team belongs to all Hungarians, wherever they live!"

The two countries have repeatedly clashed in recent years over what Hungary said were curbs on the right of ethnic Hungarians living in Ukraine to use their native tongue, especially in education, after Ukraine passed a law in 2017 restricting the use of minority languages in schools.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian foreign ministry said on Tuesday (November 22) that Ukraine will summon Hungarian ambassador to lodge a protest over Hungary PM Viktor Orban wearing a scarf depicting some Ukrainian territory as part of Hungary.

Ukrainian foreign ministry said on Tuesday (November 22) that Ukraine will summon Hungarian ambassador to lodge a protest over Hungary PM Viktor Orban wearing a scarf depicting some Ukrainian territory as part of Hungary. Orban wore the scarf at a football match. Images in Ukrainian media showed Orban meeting a Hungarian footballer while wearing the scarf. News outlet Ukrainiska pravda said that the scarf depicted. a map of "Greater Hungary". The scarf reportedly also showed some territories of Austria, Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, Serbia as part of Hungary. "The promotion of revisionism ideas in Hungary does not contribute to the development of Ukrainian-Hungarian relations and does not comply with the principles of European policy," Ukrainian ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko wrote on Facebook. He said that Ukraine wanted an apology and and a rebuttal. In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Orban did not directly address the controversy over the scarf. "Soccer is not politics. Do not read things into it that are not there," he wrote. "The Hungarian national team belongs to all Hungarians, wherever they live!" The two countries have repeatedly clashed in recent years over what Hungary said were curbs on the right of ethnic Hungarians living in Ukraine to use their native tongue, especially in education, after Ukraine passed a law in 2017 restricting the use of minority languages in schools. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine to protest Orban wearing scarf showing Ukraine territory as Hungary's

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared the European Union’s sanctions against Russia ‘a step towards war,’ AFP reported. During a radio interview on Friday, Orban appeared to have shifted gears to deplore the EU’s economic measures against the Kremlin, which he considers “dangerous”.

"Anyone who intervenes economically in a military conflict is taking a position," Orban said during the interview. "Little by little, we are sliding towards war," he added. Orban further added that he will keep fighting against the EU’s sanctions on Russia and will ensure Hungary is exempted from them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meeting-hungarys-strongman-pope-treads-a-fine-line-with-an-embattled-leader-412510">Meeting Hungary’s strongman, Pope treads a fine line with an embattled leader</a>

While condemning the EU’s military support to Ukraine, Orban added, “Now we are supplying destructive weapons, we are training Ukrainian soldiers on our own territory, we are imposing sanctions on energy... We are becoming an integral part [of the conflict]. We are not being shot at yet, but we are about to become belligerent. Europe is playing a very dangerous game."

Orban has also opposed the EU’s proposal to provide $18 billion in aid to Ukraine in form of loans. "Hungary is not going to accept that EU members take out loans together to help Ukraine," he declared.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-budapest-hungarys-viktor-orban-tells-cpac-conservatives-to-have-own-media-to-retain-power-480836">In Budapest, Hungary’s Viktor Orban tells CPAC conservatives to have own media to retain power</a>

Orban has seemingly intensified his criticism of Brussels’ Russia policy in the wake of the worsening economic situation at home. Inflation is soaring in the country, currently exceeding 20 per cent, while food prices have risen 45 per cent compared to the last year. According to Focus Economics, the Hungarian economy shrank 0.4 per cent&nbsp;on a seasonally adjusted quarter-on-quarter basis in the third quarter.

Now, Orban’s campaign is to blame the EU’s economic sanctions on Russia for Hungary’s poor state of economy. The government has already launched “national consultations” on the issue and put up posters around the country with the caption: "Brussels sanctions are ruining us" against a picture of a missile.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared the European Union’s sanctions against Russia ‘a step towards war,’ AFP reported. During a radio interview on Friday, Orban appeared to have shifted gears to deplore the EU’s economic measures against the Kremlin, which he considers “dangerous”.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared the European Union’s sanctions against Russia ‘a step towards war,’ AFP reported. During a radio interview on Friday, Orban appeared to have shifted gears to deplore the EU’s economic measures against the Kremlin, which he considers “dangerous”. "Anyone who intervenes economically in a military conflict is taking a position," Orban said during the interview. "Little by little, we are sliding towards war," he added. Orban further added that he will keep fighting against the EU’s sanctions on Russia and will ensure Hungary is exempted from them. Also read | Meeting Hungary’s strongman, Pope treads a fine line with an embattled leader While condemning the EU’s military support to Ukraine, Orban added, “Now we are supplying destructive weapons, we are training Ukrainian soldiers on our own territory, we are imposing sanctions on energy... We are becoming an integral part [of the conflict]. We are not being shot at yet, but we are about to become belligerent. Europe is playing a very dangerous game." Orban has also opposed the EU’s proposal to provide $18 billion in aid to Ukraine in form of loans. "Hungary is not going to accept that EU members take out loans together to help Ukraine," he declared. Also read | In Budapest, Hungary’s Viktor Orban tells CPAC conservatives to have own media to retain power Orban has seemingly intensified his criticism of Brussels’ Russia policy in the wake of the worsening economic situation at home. Inflation is soaring in the country, currently exceeding 20 per cent, while food prices have risen 45 per cent compared to the last year. According to Focus Economics, the Hungarian economy shrank 0.4 per cent on a seasonally adjusted quarter-on-quarter basis in the third quarter. Now, Orban’s campaign is to blame the EU’s economic sanctions on Russia for Hungary’s poor state of economy. The government has already launched “national consultations” on the issue and put up posters around the country with the caption: "Brussels sanctions are ruining us" against a picture of a missile. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hungary PM Orban warns EU against taking ‘a step towards war’, condemns military aid to Ukraine

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