Le Pen Backs Orbán as Hungary Blocks EU Aid to Ukraine

Budapest, Hungary – French far-right leader Marine Le Pen voiced her support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s decision to block a €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine, citing France’s own financial constraints. The display of solidarity came during a gathering of European far-right leaders in Budapest on Monday, March 23, 2026, as Hungary prepares for elections on April 12.

Financial Concerns Drive Opposition

Le Pen argued that France is no longer in a position to financially support Ukraine’s war effort due to its significant debt and budget deficits. “France is ruined, our public finances don’t allow us today to make loans we understand won’t be reimbursed,” she stated to reporters. She emphasized the need for France to prioritize its own citizens and financial stability, stating, “France has to become reasonable… and maintain the money for French citizens.”

Gathering of Far-Right Leaders

The meeting in Budapest, hosted by Orbán’s Patriots for Europe group, included Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders and Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini. The gathering served as a show of support for Orbán ahead of the upcoming Hungarian elections. Le Pen publicly endorsed Orbán on X (formerly Twitter), expressing her “honor” in supporting him. Source

EU Response and Concerns

Despite Hungary’s blockade, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed that the EU will proceed with providing Ukraine with the €90 billion loan between 2026-2028. Source German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized Orbán’s actions as a violation of loyalty among EU member states, warning of potential consequences. Source

CPAC and Shifting Alliances

Hungary recently hosted a European edition of the Conservative Political Action Committee (CPAC), featuring a video message from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who reaffirmed his support for Orbán. Le Pen, however, was not present at CPAC and expressed a desire for France to maintain a degree of independence from global powers, citing concerns about protecting French interests, as demonstrated by Trump’s past tariff disputes with Europe. Source

Key Takeaways

• Marine Le Pen supports Viktor Orbán’s blocking of EU aid to Ukraine.
• Le Pen cites France’s financial difficulties as a reason to prioritize domestic spending.
• The gathering in Budapest highlights growing alignment among European far-right leaders.
• The EU intends to proceed with the aid package despite Hungary’s opposition.