Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made a bold call to prevent what he describes as the European Union and NATO's "dangerous plans" from escalating the conflict in Ukraine.
Speaking at a rally following the "Peace March" supporting Hungary's anti-escalation stance, Orban urged voters in the upcoming European Parliament elections to support parties that favor peace over war.
Hungary's Anti-War Stance
Orban emphasized that Hungary's goal is to prevent Europe from "entering a war with Russia."
He criticized the West's moves, including the deployment of military instructors to Ukraine, claiming that Europe is on a path to war.
"Europe is preparing for war, and every day brings a new step closer to hell," he warned.
This isn't the first time Orban has voiced pro-Russian sentiments. In March, he accused European countries of waging their own war against Russia by supporting Ukraine and imposing sanctions on Moscow.
Orban has consistently argued against the transfer of weapons to Kyiv that could reach Russian territory, citing the risk of further escalation.
He has also criticized the EU's aid to Ukraine, arguing that Brussels' policies do not align with European interests.
Tensions with the European Union
Hungary's government has obstructed nearly half of the EU's decisions regarding Ukraine and is currently blocking the disbursement of over €6.5 billion ($7.1 billion) to the country.
This obstruction has increasingly frustrated other EU member states, who are seeking ways to safeguard the funds intended for Kyiv from Hungary's veto. According to Bloomberg, citing informed sources, EU leaders are considering unprecedented steps to sideline Hungary from decision-making processes.
This could involve invoking Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union, which allows for the suspension of a member state's voting rights if it breaches EU values.
Orban's Rallying Cry
During the rally, Orban painted a stark picture of Europe's trajectory, urging Hungarian citizens to vote for peace-supporting parties in the European Parliament elections.
"We must stop these dangerous plans before they plunge us into war," he declared, reinforcing his position against EU and NATO strategies in Ukraine.
