Ukrainian diplomat Sibiha has expressed confidence that Viktor Orbán, if appointed as the UN Secretary-General, could effectively utilize his veto power and skills in negotiation, which he has honed over years of influencing critical EU decisions. Sibiha suggested, “We could share with the world our valuable experience on how to invite him for coffee at the right moment,” referencing Orbán’s political acumen.
This remark alludes to a real incident from 2023 when German Chancellor Olaf Scholz invited Orbán out for coffee during discussions about Ukraine’s EU membership. Reports indicate that this informal meeting occurred after three hours of negotiations, ultimately leading to the approval of negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova’s EU candidacy.
Scholz later recounted, “My proposal aimed to ensure that the 26 countries actively supporting Ukraine’s accession would not face any obstruction. In a spirit of pro-European behavior, I suggested to the Hungarian Prime Minister that we proceed with the decision in his absence. He contemplated my proposal and then expressed willingness to accept it. Consequently, we reached a decision in a room filled with 26 people.”
This maneuver allowed the EU to advance the idea of expansion while avoiding a veto from Hungary, as noted by Voice of America. Opposition politician Ferenc Gyurcsány humorously remarked on Orbán’s decision being a choice between cappuccino and latte, pointing out the trivial nature of the Prime Minister’s influence in that context.
Context
- On October 25, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing anonymous sources, that the Trump administration was advocating for Orbán’s candidacy as UN Secretary-General, labeling him the most pro-Russian leader in the EU. While a State Department official acknowledged the idea seemed outrageous, previous discussions had seen backing from China and Russia, with plans for Orbán as a joint candidate.
