In a controversial statement, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban labeled Ukraine as an 'enemy' of Hungary during a rally on February 7, 2026. This declaration comes amidst Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, where Orban has consistently aligned himself with the Kremlin's stance. Orban's remarks were particularly critical of Ukraine's demand for the EU to halt imports of cheap Russian energy, suggesting that such a stance makes Ukraine an adversary of Hungary. This stance is in stark contrast to Hungary's reliance on Russian gas and its opposition to the EU's decision to ban Russian gas purchases by 2027, a move that Hungary and Slovakia have challenged in the European Court of Justice. Orban's comments also extended to Ukraine's EU aspirations, arguing against granting Kyiv membership while advocating for cooperation as neighbors. The timing of these remarks is significant, as they precede Hungary's parliamentary elections in April, where Orban faces a challenge from opposition leader Peter Magyar. Despite trailing in the polls, Orban dismissed the survey results as 'propaganda', indicating a potential strategy to rally support among his base.
