Hungary PM Orbán gives inflammatory speech before April elections
France 24
by FRANCE24February 15, 2026
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Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has delivered a fiery address ahead of the country's April elections, where he faces a potential end to his 16-year tenure. In his annual state-of-the-nation speech, Orbán shifted focus from Russia as Hungary's primary threat, instead targeting the European Union. He argued that EU policies harm Hungarian sovereignty and culture, aligning with his long-standing anti-EU rhetoric. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Budapest amid growing tensions between Hungary and Western institutions, further fueling speculation about the election's outcome.
Orbán's speech came just two months before the vote, which could mark a turning point for his political career. His comments reflect a broader strategy to rally support among nationalist voters by framing the EU as an existential threat. Orbán has been a close ally of former US President Donald Trump and continues to cultivate ties with conservative leaders globally. This visit coincides with increasing scrutiny over Hungary's democratic backsliding and its strained relationship with the EU, particularly over issues like migration and rule-of-law concerns.
The stakes are high as Hungary's political landscape remains deeply polarized. Opposition leader Péter Magyar is set to counter Orbán's narrative in his own address, emphasizing a pro-EU vision for Hungary. The election outcome could determine whether Orbán retains power or if the opposition unites to challenge his dominance. This moment is not just critical for Hungary but also resonates globally, as it highlights tensions within the EU and the rise of nationalist populism in Eastern Europe. Orbán's anti-EU stance has drawn international criticism, with many viewing it as a broader threat to European unity and democratic norms.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/15/2026