The Prime Minister said he is sorry that their conflict has seemingly made the EPP leader Hungarophobic.Continue reading
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán defended Hungary against political attacks during a heated debate on the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union at the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg.
Addressing accusations and criticism from various political group leaders, Mr. Orbán emphasized Hungary’s independence and pushed back against claims by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
During the plenary debate, progressive political groups accused Hungary of failing to uphold rule of law and democratic values. The Hungarian Prime Minister responded by stating that the debate had become a party-political clash, and he would defend Hungary from all false allegations. He criticized Ursula von der Leyen for turning the EU executive into a political body that unfairly targets conservative governments.
This is not right,” Viktor Orbán said, accusing von der Leyen of imposing her personal opinions on the EU Presidency.
Regarding Ukraine, Mr. Orbán rejected comparisons made by von der Leyen between the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 and the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. He called these analogies a “desecration” of Hungary’s history, asserting that there is no similarity between Hungary’s fight for freedom in 1956 and the current war. The Prime Minister also argued that Ukraine must admit it is losing the war, and that the EU’s strategy has been reckless, based on miscalculations.
He called for a new approach involving diplomacy, communication, and a ceasefire to prevent further escalation.
Orbán went on to defend Hungary’s policies, particularly against accusations that Hungary had released people smugglers from prisons. He pointed out that Hungary has arrested over 2,000 people smugglers, thus helping to safeguard Europe. “We should be praised for this, not criticized,” he remarked. Mr. Orbán also stressed that Hungary’s constitution protects traditional family values, emphasizing that marriage in Hungary is defined as a union between a man and a woman.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister had intended to discuss important issues like competitiveness and migration during the debate, but it developed into a political confrontation. Nevertheless, he affirmed that Hungary would stand firm in defending its sovereignty and values when attacked.
Via MTI; Featured Image: MTI / Miniszterelnöki Sajtóiroda / Benko Vivien Cher