EU Ministers Criticize Hungary's Nationalist Agenda

Senior government ministers from Ireland, Luxembourg, and Belgium criticized Hungary's nationalist policies and questioned its adherence to EU values. The criticisms come amid Hungary's controversial presidency of the EU and its close ties with Russia. The ministers highlighted concerns about human rights, rule of law, and democratic standards.

Senior government ministers from Ireland, Luxembourg, and Belgium publicly questioned Hungary's adherence to European Union values and standards on Tuesday, expressing concerns over Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's nationalist policies.

Hungary, having assumed the EU's rotating presidency in July, drew ire when Orbán visited Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a move EU counterparts argue does not represent the bloc's interests.

Luxembourg Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel further criticized Hungary's proclivity for Russian visits and questioned its commitment to EU values, especially rule of law and human rights. Statements from the ministers were a rare and public criticism of an EU member state.

(With inputs from agencies.)