Bangladesh, Jan. 28 -- Hungarys government has launched a nationwide petition urging citizens to reject what it describes as Brussels plans to finance Ukraines war-related expenses over the coming decade, intensifying an already sharp political clash between Budapest and the European Union over support for Kiev. The campaign, announced on January 27, is framed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbans administration as a direct appeal to the Hungarian public-and a signal to EU institutions-that Hungary does not consent to bearing the financial burden of the Ukraine conflict.

According to a government statement, the petition seeks to “send a message to Brussels” that Hungarian citizens are unwilling to pay for Ukraines military costs, l...