In a highly charged session at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban delivered a speech that underscored the growing rift between Hungary and the European Union. Orban used the opportunity to outline the priorities of Hungary's EU Council presidency, reiterating demands for sweeping changes in EU policies, particularly on migration and economic competitiveness. He criticized the EU's asylum system, suggesting external centers for processing applications and criticized the EU's energy and climate policies.
His comments sparked a fierce debate with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who challenged Orban's positions on several fronts, including his close ties with Russia and China, and the protectionist economic policies of his government. Von der Leyen defended EU's sanctions on Russian oil and emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing war.
Orban's speech highlighted the ideological divide within the EU, with right-wing factions applauding his rhetoric while left-wing parliamentarians responded with protest. The Hungarian leader's remarks about sending buses of migrants to Brussels further fueled tensions, drawing sharp rebukes from EU leaders.
The contentious exchanges underscored the challenges facing the EU in maintaining unity amidst divergent national interests. As Hungary continues to clash with EU policies, particularly in areas of governance and human rights, the bloc faces a difficult path in reconciling these differences. Orban's call to "make Europe great again," echoing Donald Trump's infamous slogan, signals a longing for radical shifts that could redefine the future trajectory of the European Union.
