Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban dismissed fears of a potential Russian attack on NATO members, stating that Russia’s capabilities were limited, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Orban emphasized that Russia’s struggle against Ukraine demonstrated its inability to overpower the country swiftly.
Despite Hungary’s membership in the EU and NATO, the country has refrained from providing military assistance to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Orban has also expressed reluctance to participate in NATO’s long-term plan to aid Ukraine, calling it a “crazy mission.”
Orban, known for his nationalist views, has centered his campaign for the upcoming European Parliament elections on avoiding deeper involvement in the conflict. He asserted that NATO’s military strength far surpassed that of Ukraine, making it unlikely for Russia or any other nation to launch an attack against the alliance.
The Hungarian leader criticized references to the Russian threat as a pretext for increased Western intervention in the Ukraine war. Tensions between Budapest and Washington have escalated due to Hungary’s delays in ratifying Sweden’s NATO accession and Orban’s close ties with Moscow despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Orban’s remarks come amidst growing concerns about Russia’s intentions in the region, with many NATO members on high alert. Despite Orban’s reassurances, the situation remains tense, and the international community continues to monitor developments closely.