Speaking on Kossuth Radio, PM Orbán detailed Hungary’s active diplomatic push to achieve a temporary halt in hostilities. "Now that Christmas is approaching, it was worth making an attempt. We've done all we could: the possibility for a mass prisoner exchange and a Christmas ceasefire is on the table," he said.
The prime minister revealed that while one party has accepted the proposal, the other has declined so far. "There are still several days until Christmas. We hope the situation may change," he stated, expressing optimism about progress despite the initial setback.
PM Orbán further stressed the moral imperative behind Hungary's efforts: "The importance of achieving even a few days of ceasefire cannot be overstated—it means fewer widows, fewer orphans. These dimensions of politics must remain at the forefront." He also commended Hungarian diplomacy for its exhaustive attempts, even under the added responsibilities of the EU presidency.
Reflecting on broader global shifts, the prime minister remarked, "The world is on the brink of changes much larger than we imagine." He connected this to Hungary's role in fostering historical transformations within Western civilization, emphasizing the transition from war to peace and from economic hardship to prosperity.
On the global stage, PM Orbán pointed to an impending major political shift with the incoming U.S. administration, suggesting, "Once the new U.S. president takes office, the world will undergo significant changes." He underscored Hungary’s readiness to collaborate with global leaders to advance peace.
The discussion also covered domestic issues, with the prime minister hailing the historic Schengen-zone accession of Romania and Bulgaria. He commended the Hungarian ministers involved, highlighting the strategic and national unity benefits this decision brings. Additionally, PM Orbán addressed misinformation surrounding Syria, asserting Hungary’s firm stance against being drawn into external conflicts through baseless rumors.
Concluding on a hopeful note, the prime minister expressed confidence in Hungary's trajectory. "The 2025 budget will mark a turning point as the first budget of peace, laying the groundwork for economic growth above three percent," he stated.