In this morning’s radio interview on Kossuth Radio's "Good Morning, Hungary" program, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán emphasized that the upcoming elections in Hungary are not about parties or ideologies but about the choice between peace and war. He warned that Europe is walking a tightrope between peace and war and stressed the importance of elected representatives' stance on the matter.
"Europe is playing with fire, balancing on the edge between peace and war," Prime Minister Orbán remarked, reflecting on historical precedents, notably Hungary's pivotal moments in the late 1990s during the NATO intervention in Serbia. "We must be vigilant," he added, recalling instances when Hungary faced the specter of conflict. PM Orbán underscored that Hungary has twice been thrust into wars that shaped its destiny and affirmed that the country will not allow itself to be embroiled in another conflict. He highlighted the alarming trend of European leaders inching towards war, emphasizing the need for discernment among Hungarians.
According to Prime Minister Orbán, Hungarians have a unique perspective on the situation. "We understand the situation. We know who stands to gain from war," he pointed out. While certain factions may profit from conflict, PM Orbán stressed that the majority of people stand for peace. He drew attention to Central Europe's historical losses in wars compared to the victories of Western Europe, attributing differences in perception to geographical context.
Prime Minister Orbán advocated for security guarantees with Russia, cautioning against the repercussions of being so near to the conflict, including economic strains such as anticipated price hikes. He outlined plans for economic growth in 2024 but lamented that the current climate limits Hungary's potential, with growth rates hampered by the specter of war.
The prime minister asserted that the Hungarian populace's deepest instincts advocate for peace, stressing the necessity of courage and national unity to support this stance. He criticized the left for its alignment with war interests, attributing it not to malice but to financial incentives. PM Orbán warned against Western attempts to influence Hungarian politics towards a pro-war agenda, urging voters to prioritize peace when casting their ballots.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Orbán addressed broader geopolitical shifts, highlighting Hungary's role in navigating economic challenges, particularly in the wake of German energy policies. He emphasized the importance of strategic alliances, evident in engagements with China and Central Asian nations, as Hungary seeks to diversify its economic landscape.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán emphasized that the upcoming elections represent a pivotal moment for Hungary and Europe at large, with the choice between war and peace looming large. He urged voters to consider not just party affiliations but the fundamental question of which candidates will advocate for peace, asserting that a vote for Fidesz is a vote for peace in Hungary.