PM Orbán highlighted the discrepancy between economic conditions and food prices, emphasizing that the reduction in energy costs and the strengthening of the Hungarian forint should have led to significant price drops. However, as he put it, retailers’ price reduction proposals fell far short of the government's expectations, “so there was no choice but to intervene."
He elaborated on the recently introduced profit margin cap, explaining that "while it is a strong intervention, there are even harsher regulatory tools available." Addressing concerns over food inflation, he noted that the measure affects 30 essential products frequently purchased by families, ensuring that retailers do not impose excessive markups.
The prime minister also reassured that, if necessary, the government would expand these measures to include all food items. "This will not increase food inflation," he stated, suggesting that retailers may attempt to circumvent regulations, but the government will respond accordingly.
PM Orbán emphasized that "the security of mothers is the key to childbirth and raising children," reinforcing his government’s commitment to supporting families. He pointed out that Western societies treat personal income tax as an individual matter, whereas "this is not true, as people live within families."
The prime minister reiterated that families should not be financially worse off for having children, and that Hungary is progressing towards a system where even in the short term, "parents will not be at a disadvantage compared to those who do not have children." He described the government’s approach to family support as unique, calling it a "Hungarikum," and pledged further reductions in income tax burdens for parents.
Discussing Ukraine’s EU accession, PM Orbán made his position clear: "The European leaders have decided that Ukraine must fight, and in return, it will get fast-track membership. This would destroy Hungary." He warned that Ukraine's potential membership would have dire consequences for the Hungarian economy and workforce.
While Hungary remains open to enlargement, PM Orbán argued that Serbia, North Macedonia, and Montenegro should be prioritized. "Serbia could be admitted tomorrow morning, bringing enormous advantages, especially for Hungary." He stressed that these countries differ significantly from Ukraine in terms of economic compatibility and geopolitical stability.
With the upcoming EU summit, PM Orbán confirmed that Hungary will not support a joint EU loan to finance defense spending. He outlined the division within Europe: "There are those who want to take on more debt and those who finance their defense from their own resources. Hungary’s Fundamental Law does not support joint borrowing, and Parliament must address this by Thursday."
Addressing Hungary’s domestic political landscape, PM Orbán sharply criticized the opposition. He labeled the Democratic Coalition (DK) as part of the European Socialists, a pro-war group, and said that the Tisza Party is aligning with the European People’s Party, which he called "the biggest war hawk."
The prime minister positioned Fidesz and the Christian Democratic People’s Party (KDNP) as the primary forces opposing war involvement, and he also acknowledged the Mi Hazánk party as part of the peace camp.
"Those prime ministers who lead Socialist-People’s Party coalitions are all pro-war. Hungary and Slovakia remain firmly against it," he declared.
Concluding the interview, PM Orbán reaffirmed his government’s dedication to peace and economic sovereignty. He urged lawmakers to reject joint EU loans for defense and called for a national approach to economic resilience. He emphasized that "2025 will be a year of breakthrough, and the world will shift towards peace, bringing economic opportunities."