Budapest (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that Hungary’s future is connected to the European Union, while also highlighting the need for urgent reforms within the bloc.
In an interview with Axel Springer CEO Mathias Döpfner, Orbán
“Hungary wants to reform the EU, but will never leave it, since it is part of Western Christian culture.”
Orbán states that the main focus of Hungary’s upcoming election is national sovereignty. He claims Brussels is financially supporting opposition groups and exerting economic pressure to influence Hungary’s internal politics.
How is Brussels allegedly influencing Hungary’s internal politics?
“The European Union is a danger on us. They are blackmailing us. They try to suffocate us economically and financially. So the main reason why I need a financial shield is because of the European Union, and against Brussels,”
he said, arguing that the EU has transitioned from a peace scheme to a “war project.”
What reforms does Orbán want to introduce within the EU?
He emphasized that sovereignty should continue to form the core of the European political system. According to him, the current EU structure does not adequately support its members, especially in Central Europe. He suggested establishing a new framework guided by “patriots” dedicated to defending national interests while fostering efficient cooperation.
Why does Orbán insist Hungary must control migration alone?
Regarding migration, Prime Minister Orbán emphasized that Hungary should keep the authority to determine who is allowed to enter and stay in the country.
“If you let in a large number of non-Christians into a Christian country, it will affect democracy,”
he warned. He also criticized Brussels for penalizing Hungary because it refused to accept illegal migrants, even though the government managed to stop irregular border crossings.
Why does orbán believe Trump and Putin both want peace?
Turning to the fighting in Ukraine, he stated,
“I think we are very close to having a peace.”
He emphasised that peace depends on a unified transatlantic stance and lamented the ongoing divide between the U.S. and the EU.
He also praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach:
“The American president is in favor of the peace. Europeans are not. What they are saying basically means that they would like to continue the war.”
He also stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is interested in peace.
The prime minister discussed energy, mentioning that Hungary obtained an exemption from U.S. sanctions on Russian oil via direct negotiations with President Trump. He emphasized the significance of nuclear energy for Hungary’s future, considering the country’s limited natural resources and absence of sea access.
What risks does Hungary face under ongoing EU rule-of-law probes?
The European Union’s disagreement with Hungary in recent years focuses primarily on the country’s decline in democracy, the weakening of the rule of law, and its obstructionist behaviour within the EU.
The EU has strongly criticised these issues and has started investigations under Article 7 of the Lisbon Treaty since 2018. These investigations could result in sanctions for serious violations of EU values. The EU has also taken financial steps, such as withholding major funds, for example, €1 billion in aid in early 2025. This funding is linked to Hungary’s compliance with the rule of law, which the country has not achieved.
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