Orban on sending Western troops to Ukraine: It's not time for improvisation, they are dragging us into war

(Patria) - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban warned of Europe's increasing involvement in the war in Ukraine, emphasizing that his government's main goal is to prevent Hungary from being drawn into the conflict and to preserve peace through strategic restraint and thoughtful foreign policy.

Speaking at an anti-war rally in Miskolc, he referred to Hungary's historical involvement in two world wars. He stressed that although previous leaders wanted to avoid war, they ultimately failed.

"We wanted to stay out, but we couldn't, so the big question is whether we can succeed now. I believe it is possible," Orban posted on social media X.

He made it clear that his government's main priority is to prevent Hungary from getting involved in the war. This goal, he stressed, is not guaranteed by desire alone but requires thoughtful foreign policy decisions, based on experience and strategic foresight.

"I need all my knowledge, all my experience, all my 35 years of expertise in foreign policy to keep this country out of it. We cannot entrust this task to some vagrants," Orban stated.

His statements came amid growing pressure within the European Union to deepen military support for Ukraine.

Highlighting the growing danger of this trend, the Hungarian Prime Minister outlined the steps of escalation: first helmets, then military supplies, then weapons, and now discussions about sending troops.

"This is how they are dragging us into war," he warned, pointing to recruitment calls across the EU and the possibility of Western troops entering Ukraine.

In contrast, Hungary's stance remains one of strategic restraint. Orban reiterated that Hungary is not sending money or weapons to Ukraine.

Instead, his government is building international alliances that can strengthen its ability to resist pressure for military involvement.

"We are building our international relations in such a way that Hungary can stay out of this war," Orban explained.

The message from Miskolc was also a call to Hungarian voters ahead of the upcoming elections. Emphasizing the link between internal stability and peace, Orban stated that a stable Hungarian government is a prerequisite for preventing conflict in the country.

"This is not a time for gambling. We must choose a safe answer - Fidesz," Orban said.

As European debates on military engagement and defense integration intensify, Orban did not try to hide the high stakes, acknowledging the complexity and seriousness of the moment.

"This is not a time for improvisation," he concluded, drawing a clear line between Hungary's anti-war stance and what he described as the thoughtless posturing of others.

Parliamentary elections in Hungary are expected to be held in April 2026.

Hungary has long opposed the EU's policy towards Ukraine, often blocking or slowing down joint financial packages and sanctions.

Budapest maintains closer relations with Russia than most EU member states, particularly in the area of energy cooperation and political dialogue, which regularly leads to tensions with Brussels.