Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said Hungary must remain outside the war in Ukraine and reject foreign influence, speaking at a campaign rally in Veszprém as part of his nationwide tour ahead of the parliamentary elections.
Addressing a large crowd in the city’s main square, Prime Minister Orbán stressed that “the most important commitment is to stay out of the war,” noting that the conflict has cast a shadow over Hungary’s economy and daily life. He pointed out that energy costs had surged as a result of the war, saying Hungary had to pay significantly more for imported energy.
The Prime Minister framed the upcoming election as a decisive choice. “The question is whether we can protect the country or hand it over to foreign interests,” he said, adding that stability is essential in the current geopolitical environment. He warned against political forces that, in his view, would align Hungary with pro-war policies.
Prime Minister Orbán also addressed Ukraine’s role, stating: “Ukraine needs money, but it does not have it, and neither does the European Union,” arguing that proposed financial mechanisms would ultimately burden European taxpayers for decades. He added that such arrangements would mean “our grandchildren will also be paying these debts.”
He further claimed that Ukraine is seeking to influence Hungarian politics. “Zelenskyy has entered the Hungarian election,” Prime Minister Orbán said, alleging that Ukrainian actors are attempting to shape the outcome. He reiterated that Hungary must resist such efforts and maintain sovereignty over its decisions.
Referring to the opposition, he said: “The Tisza represents a pro-Ukraine government,” warning that such a direction would end policies like regulated utility prices and family support schemes.
The Prime Minister highlighted government measures implemented despite the war, including the restoration of pension benefits and continued family support programs. “There is no other country where mothers with two children receive lifetime income tax exemption,” he noted.
Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Orbán called for unity and participation in the election, emphasizing that Hungary’s future depends on maintaining a national government capable of ensuring economic stability and keeping the country out of the war.