Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán delivered a speech in Budapest where he criticized the EU’s leadership, accusing them of isolating the bloc from key global powers and predicting a significant shift in political dynamics with the rise of a new U.S. president and right-wing factions in Europe.
Orbán argued that Europe has distanced itself from influential players in the emerging global order, such as the U.S., Russia, China, and Africa. He expressed optimism about the potential realignment following Donald Trump’s election as U.S. President and the growth of the Patriots for Europe, a right-wing group in the European Parliament. He anticipated a partnership between these forces, stating they could lead a “reconstruction of the Western world.”
The Prime Minister made these comments at a conference titled “Successful Hungarian Presidency 2024 – A Chance for the European Union,” hosted by the 21st Century Institute and Mathias Corvinus Collegium in Budapest. Reflecting on Hungary’s EU presidency during the latter half of last year, Orbán described it as a turning point and criticized EU leadership for leading the bloc toward decline. He warned that unless changes are made, the EU risks becoming a “loser” in the new global order.
Orbán praised Donald Trump as a patriotic, peace-driven, and anti-migration leader, suggesting his presidency would significantly impact European politics. “In just a few hours,” he said, “the sun will shine differently over Brussels.” He portrayed the EU as a “sick man” unable to ensure peace, security, or economic prosperity, while also failing to address migration issues or provide a vision for agriculture. Furthermore, he argued that granting Ukraine EU membership would devastate European farmers.
He attributed much of the EU’s problems to the growing power of its central bureaucracy. Orbán accused Brussels of prioritizing integration for its own sake and consolidating authority over nation-states. He asserted that change was essential to “heal” the EU and proposed confronting Brussels through political action, both from within and outside the system.
In Orbán’s view, Brussels is controlled by an elite oligarchy aligned with left-liberal and transatlantic interests, which he believes undermines the sovereignty of individual nations. He accused financier George Soros of supporting a “united liberal front” to attack patriots and sovereigntists who challenge EU corruption and bureaucratic overreach. Orbán alleged that this front uses both incentives, such as funding and recognition, and threats, including fines and sanctions, to suppress dissent.
Regarding Hungary, Orbán highlighted his country’s economic neutrality and national identity as a bold alternative to EU norms. He claimed Hungary’s economy was thriving and characterized its governance as a global example of innovation and courage.