Roman Gotsiridze, a Georgian opposition MP,  on Thursday voiced concerns over the expansion process of the European Union, asserting that Georgia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Moldova cannot attain any status independently of Ukraine. He stressed Hungary, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, was engaged in what he described as "disgusting" behavior.

Gotsiridze accused Orbán of adopting a Lukashenko-like approach, characterizing him as an "extortionist" who aims to secure several billions from the EU through exploiting the issue of Ukraine's accession to the bloc as leverage, as Budapest had threatened to block Ukraine’s accession and $50 aid amid ongoing conflict with Russia. 

"Hungary is behaving extremely disgustingly, trading in fact. Orbán has in fact been established as the Hungarian Lukashenko, who is an extortionist and with his tricks wants the frozen money that the EU does not give to Hungary because the norms of democracy are violated in this country, and now he is actually blackmailing the EU with the issue of Ukraine," said Gotsiridze.

While expressing doubt about Hungary's willingness to block Ukraine's EU accession, Gotsiridze highlighted Hungary's history of obstructing EU decisions, particularly regarding Russian sanctions. Hungary's actions, according to Gotsiridze, align with the interests of Russia and position the country as an ally during Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Gotsiridze emphasized that the postponement of discussions, driven by Hungary's potential veto power, could result in a delay for all countries, including Georgia, who is expecting the bloc’s candidacy this month. Gotsiridze, however,  hoped that Orbán's alleged attempts to manipulate the situation would end by “extorting” billions from the EU for accepting Ukraine’s accession.