‘One is constantly reminded of Hallstein’s [Stresa] speech when analysing the turbulences of the recent years in Europe’s fields and countryside towns, occasionally bringing the distinct view of columns of tractors and piles of hay to the polished streets and thoroughfares of European capitals. And, out of the several farmers’ movements that have swept the EU since 2022, few dialogue so much with Hallstein as the Polish one.’
Hungarophobic MEP Daniel Freund mockingly posted several times about Viktor Orbán not being invited to Donald Trump’s inauguration next Monday. Freund obviously has no idea what he is talking about. Our commentary.
Protests in Georgia have been ongoing for nearly a month after the government suspended the country’s EU accession process until 2028. Clashes between demonstrators and police are becoming increasingly frequent, evoking a strikingly similar image to the events of late 2013, early 2014 in Ukraine. However, the current Georgian crisis differs in significant ways from Euromaidan, and these differences could prove to be lifesaving for the Georgian government.
Six months ago, many questioned whether Hungary could fulfil the role of ‘honest broker’ required for the EU Presidency. Now, as the semester concludes, it is evident that Budapest has delivered one of the most successful and memorable presidencies in the history of the European Union.
A recent Századvég poll reveals that 77 per cent of Hungarians believe Donald Trump, upon assuming office in 2025, could end the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war. The findings highlight strong public support for peace initiatives, aligning with Hungary’s diplomatic efforts.
‘Despite his mild demeanour and centrist credentials, what Christophe Hansen offers is a distinctly more pro-farmer outlook than that of the previous quinquennium. The Luxembourgish was adamant in his defence of the CAP during his hearing.’
‘It is evident that the international network—of which Direkt36 and De Tijd are integral part of—consistently criticizing the Hungarian government, is essentially accusing the Intelligence Office (IO) of doing its job, however absurd it seems. The true aim of the Brussels-led agencies has long been not to uncover the truth, but to weaken the Hungarian government and ultimately bring it down.’
Viktor Orbán has been a highly constructive politician in recent years, shaping his positions around Hungary’s national interests, incoming President of the European Council Antonio Costa said in a recent interview. The former Portuguese prime minister has known Orbán for many years and is a frequent visitor to Budapest.
‘The President made a powerful comment on Ukraine: “Ukraine is fighting for our freedom every day—and we must work for its freedom too.” In light of this, she resolved that our top priority will continue to be “rallying partners to support with short-term needs and long-term reconstruction efforts”.’
With Austria’s veto lifted, Romania and Bulgaria are set to become full members of the Schengen area by 2025. The agreement was reached in Budapest under the auspices of the Hungarian EU Presidency, marking yet another success for the often-criticized presidency in recent weeks.