Reflecting on Hungary’s historical entanglement in two world wars, the prime minister stressed that although past leaders wished to avoid war, they ultimately failed. “We wanted to stay out, but we couldn't, so the big question is whether we can succeed now. I believe it is possible.”
Prime Minister Orbán made it clear that his government’s top priority is to prevent Hungary from becoming entangled in the war. This goal, he emphasized, is not guaranteed by desire alone but requires deliberate foreign policy decisions, rooted in experience and strategic foresight. “I need all my knowledge, all my experience, all my 35 years of foreign policy expertise to keep this country out,” he said, underlining the weight of responsibility. “We cannot entrust this task to some vagabonds.”
The prime minister’s remarks come amid increasing pressure within the European Union to deepen military support for Ukraine. Highlighting the growing danger of this trend, Prime Minister Orbán outlined the steps of escalation: first helmets, then military supplies, then weapons, and now discussions of sending troops. “This is how we’re being dragged into the war,” he warned, pointing to calls for EU-wide conscription and the possibility of Western troops entering Ukraine.
In contrast, Hungary’s position remains one of strategic restraint. Prime Minister Orbán reiterated that Hungary neither sends money nor weapons to Ukraine. Instead, his government is building international alliances that can strengthen its ability to resist pressures for military involvement. “We are building our international relations in such a way that Hungary can stay out of this war,” he explained.
The message from Miskolc was also a call to Hungarian voters ahead of the upcoming elections. Stressing the link between internal stability and peace, Prime Minister Orbán stated that a stable Hungarian government is a precondition for keeping the country out of conflict. “This is not the time for gambling,” he said. “We must choose the safe answer: Fidesz.”
As European debates over military engagement and defense integration intensify, Prime Minister Orbán’s position stands out. He made no attempt to conceal the high stakes, acknowledging the complexity and gravity of the moment. “This is not the time for improvisation,” he concluded, drawing a clear line between Hungary’s anti-war stance and what he described as the reckless posturing of others.
Closing the rally, he reaffirmed the long-standing motto: “Whoever wants peace, walks with us.” With that, he thanked the people of Miskolc and looked ahead to the next anti-war gathering in Kaposvár.