In a speech on Wednesday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán accused the European Union of attempting to overthrow his government and install a puppet regime in Hungary. Speaking on the country's national holiday commemorating the 1956 uprising against Soviet rule, Orbán drew parallels between past foreign occupations and the EU's alleged interference in Hungarian politics.
Orbán claimed that the EU views independent Hungarian politics as unacceptable and aims to replace the national government with a Brussels-backed puppet administration. Despite providing no evidence to support his assertions, Orbán rallied his supporters, questioning whether Hungary should bow to foreign influence or resist it, drawing parallels to the country's fight for freedom in 1956.
The EU has clashed with Hungary over alleged rule of law violations, leading to the withholding of financial support and calls to strip Hungary of its voting rights. The EU parliament has even questioned Hungary's democratic credentials, further straining relations.
Orbán's stance on the war in Ukraine has also fueled tensions with the EU, as Hungary has taken a more pro-Russia stance, opposing EU efforts to support Ukraine and sanction Russia. Critics have accused Orbán of prioritizing Russian interests over those of the EU and NATO.
As Hungary faces internal challenges, including economic struggles, scandals, and a resurgent opposition, Orbán's Fidesz party is in a tight race with a new challenger, Péter Magyar and his Tisza party, ahead of the 2026 national elections.
Meanwhile, supporters of Magyar gathered in Budapest to commemorate the 1956 revolution, calling for a return to freedom, democracy, and a new direction for Hungary. Many expressed a desire for change after years of Fidesz rule, highlighting a growing sentiment for political transformation in the country.
