Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban recently declared the European Union an "imminent danger," asserting that Brussels, not Russia, poses the primary threat to the continent's security. Speaking to supporters on 14/2, Orban dismissed concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin as "short-sighted and irresponsible." His remarks come just 8 weeks before a crucial Hungarian election, where his Fidesz party faces its most significant challenge since regaining power in 2010.

Orban's campaign hinges on a narrative that positions the EU as an adversary. He has consistently rejected the assertion by many European leaders that Russian President Vladimir Putin threatens the continent's security. "We must accept the idea that those who love freedom should not fear the East, but the European Union," the Hungarian Prime Minister stated. This stance is particularly critical as most independent polls indicate Fidesz is currently trailing the center-right Tisza party.

Prime Minister Orban's administration has long been in disagreement with the EU. The union has frozen billions of USD in funding for Hungary due to concerns that Orban has eroded democratic institutions, undermined the independence of the judiciary, and enabled widespread corruption within the state apparatus. In response, the Hungarian Prime Minister has further obstructed EU decision-making, frequently threatening to veto key policies such as providing financial aid to Ukraine.

Since the conflict in Ukraine erupted in early 2022, Prime Minister Orban has firmly opposed military and financial aid to Kyiv. He maintains close ties with Russia and adopts a confrontational stance with EU and NATO member states, which the Hungarian leader considers hawkish. Budapest is a member of both blocs.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban attended an EU summit in Belgium on 12/2. Photo: AP

Orban's campaign argument suggests that if the Fidesz party loses, the EU would send Hungarians to their deaths in Ukraine. The Hungarian leader has also described the Tisza party as an EU-created puppet designed to overthrow the current government and serve foreign interests, an accusation the Tisza party has rejected.

Meanwhile, Tisza leader Peter Magyar has pledged to mend relations between Hungary and its Western allies, revive the stagnant economy, and promote democratic processes.

Pham Giang