Hungary's Orban criticises EU war‑readiness stance

During a Friday discussion on Hungarian public radio, Prime Minister Viktor Orban criticised the EU's readiness strategy. In his view, certain European Union countries want to increase their involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. Orban remarked that preparations for war might signal a desire to attack.

Orban referred to the EU strategy aimed at preparing the Community for more effective protection of citizens in crisis situations, such as pandemics or war. The Hungarian Prime Minister criticised the European Commission's recommendation concerning stockpiling food, medicine, and water for at least three days. He noted that in Hungary, households typically possess sufficient supplies without requiring additional storage.

When someone prepares for war, it means they want to attack themselves — stated Orban, as quoted by the Polish Press Agency.

Orban accused the European Union of harbouring bad intentions, claiming that the readiness strategy might suggest a desire to attack. He emphasised that warnings from Brussels about aggressive actions by Russia are unjustified, and the conflict is occurring far from NATO borders. The Hungarian Prime Minister noted that even if Europe decides to go to war, Hungary will not participate.

Orban also expressed support for the American administration, which he believes is working towards peace. He stressed that Hungary disagrees with EU policy and can rely on the support of Slovakia and Italy.

Since the beginning of Russia's aggression in Ukraine, Orban has blamed Ukraine for the conflict, accusing Western allies of escalation. He refuses to label Russia as the aggressor, claiming that he is the only European leader seeking a truce. He explains his close relationship with Vladimir Putin and frequent visits to Moscow as a desire to establish peace.