Opening the event, Prime Minister Orbán described the gathering as a historic first, with patriotic parties convening in Budapest to adopt a common declaration in defense of European nations and freedom. Responding to claims that Hungary is isolated, the prime minister rejected the criticism, pointing to the presence of allied leaders as proof of a growing international alignment.
“We have clear goals, clear plans, and a clear roadmap,” PM Orbán said, stressing that cooperation among these political forces is deliberate and strategic.
At the center of his speech was a direct objective regarding the future of the European Union. “We want to take over and transform Brussels,” Prime Minister Orbán declared. He made it clear that the aim is not deeper integration, but a restructuring of the EU into “an alliance of sovereign nations,” explicitly rejecting federalism and the concept of an “ever closer union.”
Looking ahead, PM Orbán predicted a major political realignment across the continent. He said that by the end of the decade, Europe could be defined by national and conservative forces, adding that those represented within the Patriots alliance today could become the European Union’s leaders in the years ahead.
Prime Minister Orbán described the current political situation in Europe as a stalemate. He argued that the Brussels-based liberal leadership is weakening, pointing to economic difficulties, industrial decline, migration pressures, the energy crisis, and the failure of the Green Deal. At the same time, he highlighted the growing strength of patriotic forces, particularly in Central Europe, while noting that Western Europe remains a key battleground.
He also emphasized the role of the Patriots group in the European Parliament, describing it as the first genuine opposition capable of confronting the mainstream without compromise and consistently representing the interests of European citizens.
Another key part of the address focused on Ukraine’s potential accession to the European Union. Prime Minister Orbán warned against fast-tracking membership, arguing that it would bring the war closer to the EU and impose severe financial burdens on member states. He added that such a move would deepen debt and place long-term pressure on European economies.
Turning to the political calendar, PM Orbán pointed to a series of upcoming elections across Europe, expressing confidence that patriotic parties will continue to gain ground. He said that by the time of the next European Parliament elections, these forces will be in a position to reshape leadership at the European level.
In closing, Prime Minister Orbán framed the moment as part of a broader struggle over Europe’s future. “We are fighting for the soul of Europe,” he said, emphasizing that peace, security, affordable energy, and national sovereignty must remain at the center of this effort.