Starting, PM Orbán addressed recent bomb threats targeting nearly 300 schools across Hungary, which he described as part of a concerning trend. He emphasized that the government and law enforcement acted swiftly to manage the situation and ensure public safety. "The state has proven it is capable of responding quickly to such incidents, mobilizing thousands of people to restore calm," he explained. However, he warned that similar incidents could occur, noting that international patterns show how copycat threats often follow such events. He linked the heightened security concerns to broader European challenges, including the threat of terrorism, further underscoring the importance of maintaining strict border controls.
According to PM Orbán, the political divide on migration in Hungary is stark. He explained that government parties categorically reject the migration pact and will not allow migrants into Hungary, while opposition forces actively advocate for the pact’s implementation in Brussels. He warned that such policies would heighten instability and increase the risk of terrorism, which Hungary is determined to prevent.
The prime minister reflected on Hungary’s long-standing policies, noting how many of them align with measures now gaining traction internationally, particularly in the United States. He remarked that Hungary was often ahead of its time, implementing decisive border protection and ideological measures that drew heavy criticism from Brussels and the Hungarian left. However, he expressed confidence that Hungary’s once-marginalized position has now become mainstream in Western politics. He pointed out that Hungary is no longer isolated but part of a broader conservative majority, particularly with recent political shifts in the U.S.
On the topic of family values, PM Orbán highlighted shared principles with the United States. He noted that Hungary’s constitution already enshrines fundamental ideas, such as marriage being between a man and a woman and parents being defined as a mother and a father. He also pointed out that the U.S. president had recently articulated a principle that, while not yet part of Hungary’s constitution, aligns with its broader vision: the existence of only two genders, male and female.
The conversation also touched on the issue of foreign interference in Hungary’s domestic politics. PM Orbán criticized the use of EU funds to support political groups whose task is to undermine the government, calling it unacceptable. He expressed frustration that Hungarian taxpayer money is being directed toward opposition groups through Brussels, describing this as meddling that undermines national sovereignty.
Energy security was another major topic. PM Orbán praised Hungary’s efforts to diversify its energy supply routes, specifically through the southern corridor, which bypasses Ukraine. This strategy, he argued, has ensured Hungary’s energy independence and even allowed the country to support its neighbors, such as Slovakia. However, he voiced concerns about Ukraine’s recent disruptions to gas flows and called on Brussels to prioritize the needs of Central European member states over those of a candidate country.
Addressing the economic toll of EU sanctions on Russia, the prime minister highlighted their significant cost to Hungary. He explained that the sanctions had resulted in €19 billion in losses over three years, a burden he described as disproportionate. While Hungary has managed to negotiate certain exemptions, PM Orbán emphasized the need for a serious reassessment of these policies.
Despite these challenges, the prime minister expressed optimism about Hungary’s economic prospects. He projected that 2025 would be a "fantastic year," driven by resilience and forward momentum. He noted that while recent years have required recovery efforts, the upcoming year will focus on growth and long-term prosperity.