Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has lashed out at Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin for suggesting that Brussels should clamp down on what he called Hungary’s “abuse of vetoes” within the European Union.
In a podcast interview with Euronews’ Shona Murray last week, Mr Martin criticised what he described as the “unreasonable exploitation” of the veto mechanism at EU Council meetings, directly aiming at Orbán’s frequent use of the tool.
“We have always accepted unanimity on certain aspects, and we think it’s been abused [by Hungary],” Martin said. “I believe the European Union will not become workable if that abuse continues. There’s only so much Member States can take.”
The Taoiseach pointed to instances involving Ukraine, warning that excessive obstruction could render the EU dysfunctional. He said the EU should consider using all instruments at its disposal to prevent further exploitation.
The remarks triggered a swift response from Orbán, who took to social media this morning to voice his dismay.
“For us, Ireland is a symbol of liberty and sovereignty,” Orbán wrote. “For this reason, it is always shocking when we see that an Irish patriot chooses to stand on the side of an empire instead of national sovereignty.”
He added in a pointed yet poetic rebuke: “Please don’t ruin the love story between Irish and Hungarian patriots!”
The spat highlights growing tensions within the EU over decision-making rules, particularly the unanimity requirement on key issues like foreign policy.
Hungary, under Orbán’s leadership, has repeatedly blocked EU statements and measures on Ukraine, Russia, and Israel, frustrating other member states.
The European Commission has in recent months signalled its openness to reforming veto powers, a move supported by several western EU governments who argue it would make the bloc more agile in crises.
So far, no formal proposal has been tabled to scrap or limit veto rights—but the debate is heating up.
