Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban recently met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss key issues ahead of Hungary’s EU presidency, which begins on 1 July. The pair’s meeting covered topics such as support for Ukraine and the European defense industry, as well as preparation for the upcoming European Council appointments of new EU leaders. Orban plans to promote the slogan ‘Let’s make Europe Great Again’ during Hungary’s presidency, which is of particular political significance given his recent criticisms of Germany’s migration policy and perceived political divisions within the EU.
Orban’s frustration with the European Union extends to his criticism of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, whom he described as having the “worst mandate in the history of Europe.” Despite his criticism, von der Leyen is likely to be reappointed for another term on Thursday. One of the main points of contention for Orban is the EU’s aid policy towards Ukraine, which led Hungary to block a significant €6 billion military support package for Kiev for several months. Orban has also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his treatment of the Hungarian community in Ukraine, particularly opposing the mobilization of Ukrainian Hungarians to the front lines and sharing European agricultural subsidies with Ukrainian farmers.
With his outspoken views on issues such as the rule of law and immigration, Viktor Orban has been compared to former US President Donald Trump, particularly with his slogan ‘Make Europe Great Again.’ As Hungary takes over the presidency of the European Union, Orban is expected to use this platform to communicate his specific political messages. Despite his critical stance and disputes with the EU, Orban is cognizant of Hungary’s dependence on the EU, including the substantial subsidies the country receives and the presence of German automobile factories within Hungary.
Orban is known to be an ally of National Rally party leaders Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella from France. However, there were no planned meetings between Orban and Le Pen during his visit to Paris. The two leaders are expected to meet at upcoming international events, including the next summits of the European Political Community, scheduled to take place in the United Kingdom on 18 July and in Hungary on 7 November. At these events, they will likely address various aspects of the bilateral relationship between their nations, despite any political differences they may have.
