Reflecting on his diplomatic efforts since Hungary assumed the EU presidency, Prime Minister Orbán recalled personal initiatives to broker peace. “I suggested to President Zelensky that we should work together on a ceasefire,” he said. However, he noted, “President Zelensky made it clear that peace was not on the agenda… I told him, ‘The time is not on your side, but on your opponent’s. This will end badly.’”
The prime minister lamented the European focus on Ukraine at the expense of broader continental interests. “Hungary lost over €20 billion because of the war,” he emphasized. “Families and businesses are suffering, and we’re losing billions with every passing month without peace.”
PM Orbán highlighted his recent meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, candidly stating: “Germany is the sick man of Europe. Its economy is declining, and that’s bad for us too.” He reaffirmed Hungary’s readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation, noting the mutual benefits of a stronger German-Hungarian economic alliance.
On NATO relations, PM Orbán condemned Ukrainian disinformation campaigns targeting Hungary. He told NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte that “it is unacceptable for a non-NATO country to run an intelligence-supported smear campaign against a NATO member.” Orbán asserted Hungary’s unique position: “We are Ukraine’s neighbor—we see the reality firsthand.”
The prime minister also raised serious concerns about Ukraine’s EU accession. “If we admit Ukraine, we are admitting the war into the EU,” he warned, predicting a surge in migration, risks to public safety, and economic strain. He dismissed Ukrainian efforts to sway Hungarian support: “Instead of addressing our concerns, they try to discredit us. This is no way to join the EU.”
Domestically, PM Orbán announced legislative steps to combat foreign-funded political influence, linking it to pro-war propaganda. “Those engaged in politics in Hungary must not accept foreign money,” he said. He said that internal actors were cooperating with foreign powers, including Brussels and the “Soros Empire,” in attempts to undermine Hungarian sovereignty.
Despite mounting tensions, Prime Minister Orbán remained resolute. “Hungary is a strong country, with robust institutions and defensive capabilities. We can and will protect ourselves,” he declared.
Concluding his interview, the prime minister reaffirmed his belief in diplomacy, persistence, and Hungarian self-interest: “In politics, persistence is key. If the cause is right, repeat your position a hundred, even a thousand times.” For Hungary, the path forward remains anchored in peace, sovereignty, and national resilience.