Viktor Orbán, speaking to the M1 news channel on Sunday, reflected on Hungary’s challenges over the past three years, marked by war in neighboring Ukraine and its economic fallout. He emphasized Hungary’s efforts to advocate for peace during its EU presidency while addressing economic resilience and tensions with Brussels.
The Prime Minister expressed cautious optimism about peace, stating, “we are emerging from the war and are within arm’s reach of peace.” He described the toll of the conflict, which has emptied Ukraine and disrupted energy markets. Despite challenges, Hungary has pushed peace discussions to the forefront.
What was previously a forbidden topic can now finally be talked about in a meaningful way,” Mr. Orbán said, highlighting Hungary’s role in promoting dialogue.
He proposed a Christmas ceasefire, noting, “I think I have managed to get the Russian president to seriously consider this, but the Ukrainians, for some mysterious reason, are not willing.”
Viktor Orbán criticized the EU’s handling of the conflict, stating, “if the Europeans jump into the conflict, declaring it their own war, we will face an even greater defeat.” He urged for pragmatic solutions and warned that Brussels must adapt to changing global realities, especially with a new U.S. president in January. On domestic opposition to EU policies, the Head of the Government reaffirmed Hungary’s stance:
we are the opposition to Brussels… the Patriots must take a majority and transform it.”
The most important European value is life itself. This is why we have taken steps towards a Christmas ceasefire. pic.twitter.com/ogflPYXOzx
Despite the economic strain, Mr. Orbán highlighted Hungary’s resilience, citing preserved pensions, tax benefits for families, and the lowest energy costs in Europe. “The Hungarian economy is in such a state that the moment peace comes, it can take off,” he said, emphasizing infrastructure growth and diversified markets.
Concluding with a hopeful message, Viktor Orbán wished for peace, understanding, and fairness, asserting,
there is no problem for which a solution cannot be found.”
He reassured Hungarians that government efforts would ensure a better future, adding, “we will be better off in 2025 than in 2024.”
