Viktor Orbán, a key political figure from Hungary, has defended his government’s approach to using veto power in the European Union, framing it as a necessary response to what he perceives as political pressure from Brussels. During an international press conference held in Belgium, Orbán emphasized his movement’s dedication to bolstering conservative and sovereigntist forces throughout Europe.
Orbán argued that despite facing electoral challenges, parties advocating for patriotism and anti-immigration policies are increasing in influence. He attributed this trend to rising dissatisfaction with the EU’s strategies regarding security, migration, economic competitiveness, and its handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. These issues, he suggested, are driving more support toward these political movements.
Addressing disputes over EU funding, Orbán explained that his previous administration considered the withholding of funds as a form of political leverage. In response, they had threatened to obstruct key EU decisions, such as the approval of the EU’s forthcoming seven-year budget. He maintained that Hungary should persist in employing its veto power if it is necessary to obtain the funds it believes it rightfully deserves.
The former Hungarian prime minister also criticized the EU’s mechanisms that tie funding to political and legal conditions, asserting that such practices open avenues for potential political pressure on member states in the future. He suggested that these conditions could be used strategically to influence member states’ decisions.
Looking to the future, Orbán forecasted an increasing impact for conservative and patriotic parties across Europe. He stated that center-right parties would eventually face a crucial decision: whether to form alliances with the political left or to foster greater unity among right-leaning factions. Orbán’s statements signal a continued strategic emphasis on sovereignty and conservative values within European politics.