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PM Orbán: Those who are capable of anything for power and money should not be trusted

Prime Minister Orbán warned of growing political cynicism in Hungary, drawing a sharp contrast between those who pursue power at any cost and a government rooted in national interest. Speaking during his regular Kossuth Radio interview, the prime minister addressed recent domestic political controversies and outlined his position on key national and European issues, including migration, economic strategy, and EU enlargement.

Commenting on the scandal surrounding a Tisza Party politician, Prime Minister Orbán drew a direct parallel to former Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsány’s infamous Őszöd speech, describing both cases as emblematic of politicians seeking power through national misfortune. “They are proud that the worse things get for the country, the better for them,” he stated, adding that “those who are capable of anything for power and money should not be trusted.”

Reaffirming his government’s priorities, the prime minister emphasized that Hungary’s interests remain the central focus of its European engagement. He cited the partial recovery of withheld EU funds as a success, underscoring his commitment to “fighting for Hungarians” in Brussels.

The prime minister also rejected the notion that Ukraine’s accession to the European Union is in Hungary’s economic interest. He reiterated that the potential membership of Ukraine would damage the Hungarian economy and called for national consensus on this issue. “It is important that Hungarian people form a common position,” he stressed, noting that such critical decisions must reflect the will of the people.

Turning to the EU’s stance on the war in Ukraine, Prime Minister Orbán accused Brussels of remaining firmly on the side of continued conflict. “They are still sending money, preparing for war,” he said, warning that some in Brussels believe Ukraine’s accession will contribute to its victory, further prolonging the war. He criticized this strategy as incompatible with the EU’s foundational principles of peace and diplomacy.

On economic matters, Prime Minister Orbán highlighted that recent inflationary trends stem directly from the ongoing war. He argued that ending the conflict is essential for stabilizing prices and curbing inflation. Alongside this, he discussed ongoing negotiations with industries to curb price hikes and noted successful discussions with banks and telecom firms—although food retailers have proven more resistant, prompting government intervention.

The prime minister also promoted rural development through the Hungarian Village Program. “A good life can be lived in the village,” he declared, rejecting liberal claims that rural living is outdated. He reaffirmed that the government aims to make urban-level services accessible to rural communities.

Lastly, Prime Minister Orbán spoke about the centrality of family in national policy. He underscored that family life contributes not only to personal happiness but to the strength of the Hungarian nation. Acknowledging the sacrifices of parents, especially mothers, he defended family support measures such as personal income tax exemptions. “It is not fair that childless people live more easily than those raising children,” he remarked, emphasizing that the government values families who also contribute to the workforce.

As the prime minister made clear, stability, sovereignty, and family remain the cornerstones of Hungary’s governance—even as political turbulence stirs abroad and at home.