“Even during the First World War, adversaries managed to agree on a truce for Christmas. We must show that peace is possible, even in the darkest times,” he stated.
PM Orbán elaborated on his extensive diplomatic efforts, including direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He praised Erdoğan’s role as a successful mediator, pointing to the Turkish-brokered grain export agreements as a precedent. While his initial outreach faced resistance from both sides, he noted progress: Russia has shown openness to the idea of a ceasefire, and he expressed hope that Ukraine would reassess its stance after reflecting on the humanitarian and symbolic significance of the proposal.
The ceasefire, coinciding with Orthodox Christmas, would halt hostilities for two to three days and facilitate a large-scale prisoner exchange involving up to 1,000 individuals. “This is not about strategic gains but about saving lives—preventing new widows and orphans and reuniting hundreds of prisoners with their families during the holidays,” PM Orbán explained.
On the broader war implications, the prime minister underlined Europe’s economic fatigue as inflation and skyrocketing energy prices persist. He highlighted the staggering €310 billion spent by Europe and the United States on supporting Ukraine. “This amount could have transformed Europe,” he argued, suggesting it could have been used to accelerate the integration of Western Balkan nations, develop European defense capabilities, or improve living standards across the continent.
Shifting focus to Brussels, PM Orbán criticized the European Parliament for adhering to what he called “bubble thinking” detached from the realities faced by ordinary Europeans. He condemned a recent pact between liberal, socialist, and European People’s Party (EPP) factions, which committed to policies such as increased financial aid for Ukraine, continued support for migration, and gender-focused initiatives. “This agreement shows that Brussels ignores the world outside its bubble and insists on pushing policies disconnected from real European interests,” he remarked.
He also addressed the enduring influence of global networks such as the Soros Foundation. PM Orbán claimed the organization had lost much of its foothold in the United States but maintained strong influence within Brussels. “Patriots must rise to regain control of European decision-making,” he urged, emphasizing the need for national movements to counter such globalist agendas.
Reflecting on Hungary’s EU presidency, PM Orbán highlighted significant achievements, such as successfully facilitating Romania and Bulgaria’s long-delayed accession to the Schengen Area and revitalizing stalled EU-Western Balkan relations. He attributed these successes to Hungary’s pragmatic approach and determination to address real-world challenges.
“Our presidency brought European policies closer to reality, proving that results are possible with hard work and focus,” he said.
The prime minister also laid out Hungary’s domestic priorities, particularly the ambitious economic strategy for 2025. This includes a historic 40 percent minimum wage increase over three years, housing support initiatives, and programs to assist small businesses and young workers. Spearheaded by Economic Development Minister Márton Nagy, these reforms are designed to provide immediate benefits.
“These measures will make a difference starting in January, and families will feel the positive impact,” PM Orbán assured.
PM Orbán concluded by reaffirming the need for strategic calm and realistic policymaking during these turbulent times. “A Christmas ceasefire could be a turning point,” he said. “It would show that even amidst war, peace is not a hopeless dream. From there, longer-term solutions become possible.”