Political Director to the Prime Minister Balázs Orbán said Hungary would seek to rebuild Central European cooperation and challenge what he described as the influence of Brussels if the ruling Fidesz party wins the upcoming elections. Speaking on Friday at an event organized by Mandiner at the Uránia National Film Theatre, Orbán said a future government victory would allow Hungary to restore what he called a ‘Europe of nations’.
The discussion followed a screening of the documentary Last Warning, directed by Polish journalist Michał Karnowski. The panel also featured Zbigniew Ziobro, former Justice Minister and prosecutor general of Poland, and was moderated by Editor-in-Chief of Mandiner Zoltán Szalai.
Orbán said the film reflected concerns among Polish conservatives about political developments in Hungary, and identified what he described as two key dynamics in European politics. He argued that political opponents follow what he called a dual standard approach associated with Brussels, while patriotic forces prioritize national interests. He said voters would face a clear choice at the upcoming election, framing it as a decision between patriotic and pro-Brussels political directions.
According to Orbán, Hungary is currently under pressure from two directions. He cited Ukraine as one source, pointing to strategic disagreements over issues such as military support, European Union accession and energy policy. He said these positions differ from what he described as the preferences of a majority of Hungarian voters.
Orbán also referred to criticism of Ukraine’s leadership, including statements attributed to Zelenskyy, and claimed that Kyiv is seeking political change in Hungary in line with its policy objectives.
As a second source of pressure, he pointed to Brussels, mentioning EU financial measures and the withholding of funds. He also raised concerns about online platforms, including claims that social media algorithms may influence political communication. Orbán said Prime Minister Viktor Orbán follows a long-term political strategy in addressing these challenges.
Ziobro expressed solidarity with the Hungarian Prime Minister, referring to reported threats against him and his family, and voiced support for Fidesz ahead of the election. He argued that Orbán is criticized because of his stance on national sovereignty and said Hungary represents an important example of this approach in Europe. The former Polish minister also discussed political developments in Poland, including the policies of Donald Tusk, and drew parallels between the political situations in the two countries.
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