Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that success for Central Europe hinges on maintaining business relations with Russia, in an interview published Wednesday.
Relations with Russia and Regional Cooperation
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán believes Central Europe – including the Baltic states, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia – is strong both mentally and energetically.
He predicts Central Europe will be the most important region on the continent within ten years, but stresses the need to reorganize relations with Russia, stating that success is unattainable without continued business ties.
Trump and Western Elites
Orbán expressed optimism regarding the potential return of Donald Trump, asserting that “Western elites are tired, bored, and have no ideas.”
He believes the US needed an alternative, and that Trump represents that change.
European Missteps with Trump
Orbán criticized Europe’s past treatment of Trump, citing “mocking” and “European moralizing” during his first term as mistakes.
He emphasized that Europe should respect US interests and that dismissing Trump as simply an individual was an error, as it reflected a broader shift in American sentiment.
Lost Opportunities and a New Era
Orbán argued that European leaders “destroyed bridges and opportunities for understanding with the world’s greatest power” by rejecting Trump’s conservative approach.
He stated that Europe failed to recognize Trump’s second victory as a sign of changing times.
War in Iran and Global Power Dynamics
Orbán linked the potential for war in Iran to a “new world order” characterized by nations prioritizing their national interests.
He believes the destruction of Iran’s paramilitary network could bring peace, but failure by the US could lead to a more brutal conflict.
Migration and National Identity
Orbán identified migration as the primary threat to Hungary and Europe, stating that many countries’ inability to reject it has led to significant problems.
He characterized these nations as having “lost” their identity.
The Rise of China
Orbán stated that it is “impossible” for anyone to defeat China, asserting that it will become a major global power.
He believes Europe is no longer a significant force on the world stage.
