The prime minister reflected on key moments, particularly the unprecedented decision to divert water from the Lajta River. "For the first time in my five terms, I had to order the opening of an emergency reservoir," he explained, describing how water was released to prevent the Lajta from overflowing. This decisive action was necessary as the Danube remained within its banks, but the Lajta surpassed historical water levels, posing a severe threat.
Prime Minister Orbán credited the success of the flood response to the seamless cooperation among the Hungarian Water Management Authority, the military, the police, and the many volunteers participating in the defense protection. Nearly 6,000 individuals, including prisoners volunteering for the effort, worked tirelessly to build defenses and prevent damage. "We have proven once again that Hungary can handle such crises," PM Orbán said, emphasizing that this was one of the most well-coordinated flood defenses he had witnessed, attributing much of the efficiency to Hungary’s established flood management system, which dates back to the 1960s.
One of the unique challenges Hungary faces, according to PM Orbán, is its decision to avoid constructing transverse dams across the Danube, as seen in neighboring countries. This preserves the river’s natural flow but also necessitates higher riverbank defenses, especially in areas like the Dunakanyar and Esztergom, where temporary barriers were required. "Our system has been fine-tuned over decades, and it's one of Hungary’s great assets," he said, stressing that even after years of experience, adjustments and temporary measures are sometimes still needed.
With the floodwaters receding faster than expected, PM Orbán confirmed that the immediate danger had passed, but public health concerns remain a priority, noting that contaminated floodwaters can pose risks to public health. "We have strict protocols for dismantling temporary defenses and ensuring that everything is properly cleaned," PM Orbán said, adding that public health teams are on the ground, ensuring safety measures are in place as the cleanup continues.
The prime minister also addressed the economic impact of the flood. While agricultural damage was minimal and limited to areas where emergency water releases were made, the main cost of the flood has been the defense efforts themselves. "The water stayed within the riverbed, and the damage was largely confined to the floodplain, where residents were aware of the risks," he noted. He explained that the financial burden stems mainly from logistical costs, including the use of over 2 million sandbags and the mobilization of thousands of workers.
When asked whether Hungary would seek financial assistance from the European Union, PM Orbán remained cautious. "The funds allocated by Brussels for such purposes are uncertain. We must be capable of defending Hungary without relying on anyone else. If help comes, we will accept it, but we cannot base our defense on it," he said.
Shifting to broader geopolitical and economic concerns, Prime Minister Orbán touched on Hungary’s strong economic performance compared to other EU countries, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine and global economic shifts. "We are living through two major crises," he said. "The war is one, but the other is the transformation of the global economy. Hungary must be able to adapt to this new reality."
The prime minister warned that "in this divided global economy, Hungary must preserve its economic neutrality," particularly as global powers push smaller nations to align with one of two economic blocs.
Returning to the immediate situation, as the flood defense operations begin to wind down with the worst behind them, PM Orbán concluded the interview with a note of optimism: "Tonight, I’ll have a good night’s sleep."