Orban rebukes aide over controversial 1956 invasion remarks

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has strongly criticized remarks made by his political director, Balazs Orban, who suggested that Hungary might have been better off had it not resisted the Soviet invasion in 1956.

Balazs Orban, who is not related to the Prime Minister, made the controversial statement while discussing Ukraine's resistance to the Russian invasion, comparing the two historical events in a way that has sparked public outrage, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

In a statement earlier this week, Balazs Orban criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his decision to defend Ukraine against the Russian invasion in February 2022, describing it as "irresponsible." According to the aide, Ukraine's decision to engage in a defensive war led to significant territorial losses and widespread casualties. Drawing a parallel with Hungary's anti-Soviet uprising in 1956, he remarked that "we probably wouldn’t have done what President Zelenskyy did 2.5 years ago," implying that a passive approach might have avoided such devastating consequences.

The 1956 revolution, in which Hungarians rose up against Soviet control, holds a deeply significant place in the country’s history. The rebellion was crushed by the Soviet Army, leading to substantial loss of life and national trauma. The uprising is commemorated every year on October 23 as a national holiday, serving as a symbol of Hungary's enduring struggle for freedom.

Prime Minister Orban addressed the controversial remarks during his weekly interview on national radio, making it clear that he disapproved of his aide’s comparison. "It is important to speak very carefully and clearly on sensitive issues like this," Orban stressed. He acknowledged that Balazs Orban’s statement was "ambiguous" and called it a "mistake," reminding the public that the Hungarian community's identity is deeply rooted in the legacy of the 1956 revolution.

Orban further emphasized that Hungary's historical stance has always been one of self-defence, and this principle remains unchanged. "As before, Hungary will always defend itself," the Prime Minister affirmed, distancing his government's position from the political director's remarks.

The criticism comes as Hungary navigates complex diplomatic waters, balancing its historical relationships with Russia and its commitments to European Union and NATO partners. 

By Tamilla Hasanova