Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has taken sharp aim at the opposition Tisza Party after one of its members openly welcomed the European Union’s decision to freeze billions in funding for Hungary. In fiery remarks made during an interview on Friday, April 11, Orbán accused the centrist party of betraying national interests for political gain.
The uproar follows comments made by Kinga Kollár, a Tisza Party MEP, during a recent European Parliament session. While acknowledging the financial blow caused by the EU’s decision, Kollár framed the situation as politically advantageous. “Hungarians’ worsening living standards are, unfortunately, strengthening the opposition,” she said, adding that this trend gives her hope heading into the 2026 elections.
Orbán didn’t mince words in response. “They’re cheering for Hungary’s decline just to boost their own chances,” he said, slamming the Tisza Party for what he called an unpatriotic alliance with Brussels. “They’re proud to sabotage their own country.”
The European Commission has withheld substantial funds from Hungary, citing alleged rule-of-law violations. But according to Orbán, that’s just a smokescreen. He argues the real reason behind the financial blockade is Hungary’s refusal to fall in line with the EU’s liberal agenda—especially on issues like immigration, sovereignty, and conservative family policies. Brussels, he claims, is punishing Hungary for refusing to bend the knee.
“This isn’t about the rule of law,” Orbán insisted. “It’s about silencing a government that refuses to be a puppet of Brussels.”
The prime minister warned that the EU’s long game is to topple his conservative government and install one that will toe the bloc’s political line—a move he says would betray Hungary’s values and independence.
As tensions between Budapest and Brussels continue to simmer, the internal divide in Hungarian politics seems to be heating up just as quickly, setting the stage for a fierce showdown ahead of the 2026 elections.
