Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has reaffirmed his belief that Hungary is a dynamic and influential country with a role to play on the global stage. In an interview published on Mandiner, conducted on his return flight from Dubai, Orbán shared his views on Europe’s diminishing influence, the rise of new global power centres, and the necessity for Hungary to reposition itself beyond the confines of the European Union.
According to Orbán, the Hungarian people already recognize that the future is not solely within their immediate surroundings but lies elsewhere. ‘We must align Hungary with this future—we cannot remain constrained by the framework of the European Union alone. Hungary is prepared for this shift, open to opportunities, and present where it matters,’ he stated.
He argued that while Europe once dominated world history, the continent is now in a period of decline. ‘We, Hungarians, are still immersed in European history, believing it to be the mainstream of global affairs. However, Europe, which was once the world’s largest economy, is now only the third. We must come to terms with the fact that this era is over, and Europe, unfortunately, is on a downward trajectory,’ he opined.
Orbán described Europe as lacking vitality and in urgent need of rejuvenation. Meanwhile, he pointed out that regions once ranked far behind Europe—such as the Arab world, China, and Central Asia—are now rising in prominence. ‘The future is unfolding in these regions, not within the European Union,’ he remarked.
Discussing the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Orbán expressed confidence that US President Donald Trump could secure a peace agreement in the foreseeable future. He noted that Trump has already taken the decisive step of reaching out to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and a significant meeting is reportedly being arranged.
‘Orbán warned that resolving the Ukraine conflict alone would not suffice—broader global issues must be addressed’
However, Orbán warned that resolving the Ukraine conflict alone would not suffice—broader global issues must be addressed. He highlighted key considerations such as Russia’s role in the global economy, energy supply chains, military alliances, and Europe’s security architecture. ‘These are substantial matters that must be negotiated as part of any lasting agreement,’ he stated.
He further cautioned that Europe risks being sidelined in these geopolitical discussions. ‘European leaders are trapped in a dilemma. On one hand, the United States—Europe’s key transatlantic partner—is leading a shift in values and strategic thinking. On the other hand, the people of Europe largely support this shift. Yet, European leadership remains hesitant to adapt,’ Orbán observed.
When asked whether European interests would be reflected in any peace settlement, he responded bluntly: ‘No. No one will fight for us. If a community does not stand up for itself, no one else will do it for them. If Western European leaders fail to grasp what is happening and refuse to participate, they will be excluded from the process, leaving their interests unrepresented.’
Orbán emphasized that realpolitik, not ideological debates, will shape the future. ‘This is the world of hard facts and interests—not the domain of moralizing essayists,’ he stated. He argued that Europe’s failure to assert itself risks leaving it out of critical agreements that will shape the coming decades.
Nevertheless, he pledged that Hungary would maintain an active role. ‘We, Hungarians, will be present according to our weight. Europe may be left out, but Hungary will always be there, fostering relationships and securing what is important for our nation. I will fight for Hungarian interests every time,’ he declared.
During the interview, Orbán also discussed his meeting with Alice Weidel, co-chair of Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. He described their discussions as highly engaging, stating that it had been a long time since he had such an experience in political negotiations.
‘The type of leadership we call strong is disappearing from Europe’s political landscape. And then along comes a woman who is tougher and more direct than the softened European mainstream. Her words carry willpower, vision, and optimism—something rarely seen in today’s European politics,’ Orbán remarked.
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