Hungarian PM urges Europe to build strength for tough talks with Russia

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban emphasized that Russia responds solely to the language of force, urging Europe to negotiate from a position of strength.

Speaking to French media, Orban underscored the continent’s current vulnerability and the imperative for European unity and resilience in its dealings with Moscow, Caliber.Az reports.

“I believe that the Russians understand only the language of force, and Europe must be strong. Negotiations must be conducted from a position of strength. Unfortunately, we are weak now, so we need the Americans. But in the long term, Europe must become stronger,” Orban stated.

Highlighting the need for a strategic accord with Russia, Orban insisted that such an agreement is only attainable if Europe asserts itself firmly on the global stage. He cautioned against focusing unduly on Russian President Vladimir Putin, advocating instead that the European Union prioritizes its own interests.

“The EU should not think about Russian leader Vladimir Putin, but about itself. The continent has its own interests,” he said, stressing the necessity of a balanced approach. Orban called for Europe to be resolute “both with Russia and against it,” signaling the importance of strength in diplomacy and defence alike.

By Vafa Guliyeva