Putin’s Strategic Use of Hunger as a Weapon in War
Vladimir Putin has weaponized hunger in both international conflicts and domestic governance to destabilize adversaries and strengthen his control, particularly in the context of restoring Russia's influence reminiscent of the Soviet Union. His actions in Ukraine, such as targeting agricultural infrastructure and blockading ports, have led to severe food scarcity, described by human rights organizations as a war crime. Ukraine, known as the "breadbasket of Europe," has seen its grain exports plummet, significantly impacting poor countries reliant on its produce, resulting in soaring food prices and famine conditions in regions like Somalia and Yemen. The international community responded with the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI), brokered by the UN and Turkey, allowing safe passage for grain exports from Ukraine, thus aiding 45 countries for a year. However, the initiative's collapse in July 2023 reignited food supply concerns. Domestically, Putin has also caused food insecurity in Russia by limiting seed imports, which doubled costs and resulted in shortages, hampering agricultural production. Bureaucratic obstacles have further worsened the situation, demonstrating the governmental failure to support agricultural needs despite the simplicity of providing seeds.
The Relationship Between Vladimir Putin and Viktor Orbán
The relationship between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is marked by political affinity and significant divergence from mainstream EU policies, particularly regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Unlike other EU leaders, Orbán maintains warm ties with Putin, even after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which has led to his perception as the EU's most pro-Russia leader. Hungary's dependence on Russian energy—receiving about 75% of its natural gas and 80% of its oil—underpins Orbán's opposition to EU sanctions against Moscow. Politically, Orbán has pursued nationalist, Eurosceptic policies that challenge EU fundamental principles, such as judicial independence and media freedom, leading to Hungary being labeled an “electoral autocracy.” Diplomatically, Hungary's alignment with Russia complicates EU foreign policy, often allowing Orbán to leverage veto power on sanctions and aid for Ukraine. The EU's response has transitioned from reluctance to assertiveness, utilizing legal actions and political tools, including infringement proceedings against Hungary for breaches of EU law. This evolving strategy aims to counter Hungary's democratic backsliding and uphold EU values, despite its significant economic ties to the EU and reliance on its budgetary support.