Jarosław Kaczyński stated that a victory for Viktor Orbán in Hungary’s upcoming elections is vital for a broader political realignment in Europe, alongside potential shifts in Poland and France.
Orbán’s Win Seen as Catalyst for Change
Kaczyński believes a win for Fidesz and Viktor Orbán would be significant for both Hungary and Europe, potentially initiating a larger shift with a return to power for his party in Poland and a right-wing victory in France.
He suggested this could create a force capable of reshaping Europe, arguing that the European Union is facing a crisis that could lead to its collapse, though he desires a Union focused on coordinating sovereign nations’ policies.
Criticism of Current Polish Government
Kaczyński accused the current Polish government under Donald Tusk of serving German interests rather than Poland’s.
He also criticized the government for “dismantling the rule of law” and leading Poland into a financial crisis, claiming the country was left in good condition after his party lost power in 2023, but public debt is now rising.
Concerns About Opposition on Hungary
Kaczyński expressed concern that the TISZA party and its leader, Péter Magyar, could follow the path of Donald Tusk and undermine the rule of law in Hungary if they were to win power.
Accusations of “New German Imperialism”
Kaczyński accused Ursula von der Leyen and Manfred Weber of pursuing a “new German imperialism,” stating that increasingly, decisions are made in Brussels or Berlin.
He dismissed Magyar as exhibiting behavior “typical of a 16-year-old.”
Zelenskyy’s Remarks on Orbán
Kaczyński stated he was “absolutely shocked” by remarks made by Volodymyr Zelenskyy directed at Viktor Orbán, referencing alleged threats of physical harm related to blocking EU funding.
Hungarian Elections Approaching
Hungary’s parliamentary elections are scheduled for April 12th. The TISZA party currently leads Fidesz in most independent polls, with a 23-point advantage among decided voters according to a March Median poll, while government-linked polls show a smaller Fidesz lead.
Recent Diplomatic Activity
Polish President Karol Nawrocki recently visited Budapest, meeting with Prime Minister Orbán. Orbán enjoys the support of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Péter Magyar, after meeting with Prime Minister Tusk in February, pledged to rebuild Polish-Hungarian political, economic, and cultural relations and revitalize the Visegrád Group if his party wins.
