Brussels reacted to Orban's plans for a referendum on Ukraine's EU membership.

The spokesman for the European Commission, Markus Lammer, stated that Hungary has the right to organize national consultations regarding Ukraine's membership in the European Union, but expansion remains a priority for the EU, and the Commission is determined to support Ukraine.

Markus Lammer acknowledged that the Commission is aware of Viktor Orban's plans. 'Such initiatives fall within the competence of national authorities. Our position is clear: expansion is and will remain a priority for this Commission, and Ukraine is already a member of the European family,' the spokesman said, as reported by Polish Radio.

He added that this is precisely why the EU began negotiations with Ukraine about joining last June. Kyiv has demonstrated a resolve to accelerate membership by initiating and implementing reforms in the country, despite the ongoing war.

'Today, more than ever, the policy of EU expansion has become a geostrategic investment in the long-term peace, stability, security, and prosperity of the entire continent,' Markus Lammer said.

The spokesman noted that we are currently at a critical moment for Europe, and there is no room for hesitation. He also assured that the Commission is committed to continuing to support candidate countries, including Ukraine, on their path to the EU.

'Expansion is equally beneficial for both new and current member states,' he said.

Hungary has the right to consultations, but expansion is the EU's priority

In early March, Viktor Orban spoke about his intention to ask Hungarians for their opinion regarding Ukraine's accession to the EU.

'I will ask the opinion of the Hungarian people. And no matter how much President Zelensky pressures us, until I learn the opinion of Hungarians, I cannot support Ukraine,' the Prime Minister said during a March meeting of state leaders in Brussels.

Preliminary referendums are set to start in April and last until June, although specific dates have yet to be determined. It will be of a non-binding, advisory nature.