In an interview with renowned political journalist Daris Rochebin, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán articulated his concerns regarding Ukraine's potential accession to the European Union, suggesting it could lead to an immediate conflict with Russia.

Orbán emphasized that historically, countries in Eastern Europe were first integrated into NATO to ensure military security before being admitted to the EU.

"I was and still am a street fighter for freedom.

Our freedom is threatened today from Brussels, and we must fight against this," Orbán declared during the interview, which took place as he attended a gathering of European patriots in France at the invitation of Marine Le Pen.

Regarding the European Union's potential retaliatory measures, such as the suspension of voting rights, Orbán expressed confidence that Hungary represents causes worthwhile in the EU and sees Hungary as a constructive partner.

He stated, "The EU should be happy that Hungary is a member; we belong here."

Rochebin prompted Orbán with concerns about the risk of a broader European war, to which Orbán responded skeptically, citing Russia's military weaknesses.

He acknowledged Ukraine's right to defend itself but argued that sanctions imposed against Russia have severely harmed Europe, including Hungary, which has suffered an estimated loss of €20 billion over the past three years due to these measures.

Orbán believes that a ceasefire should precede a peace agreement, followed by a long-term European security arrangement.

He noted the current inability of Europeans and Ukrainians to establish a consensus with Russians, which creates a dependence on American involvement for negotiations.

"Strength is essential when speaking to the Russians; right now, we are weak," he stated, highlighting the necessity for both American support and strengthening Europe's position for future safety.

The Prime Minister raised concerns about Ukraine's economic viability, suggesting that the country was in a state of default even before the war began.

He criticized the notion of Ukraine's inclusion in the EU as unrealistic, framing it as an economic disaster.

He remarked, "Ukraine is unsuitable for NATO or EU membership.

There is a much larger issue at play here.”

During the conversation, Orbán insisted on prioritizing Hungarian perspectives in geopolitical matters, stating that historical experiences with Russian invasions inform his stance.

He noted, "The Russians have invaded my country four times in the last 150 years, and they stayed for 45 years once.

You cannot imagine how horrible that was." He underscored the importance of pragmatic relations with Russia, rather than hostility.

The discussion also touched on Hungary's current obligations to the EU, including daily penalties of €1 million due to its refusal to comply with certain migration policies.

Orbán criticized the EU leadership for what he perceives as an erosion of national sovereignty.

He remarked, "In Europe, what is happening today is dictated by the French and Germans."

Orbán emphasized that Hungary must remain a part of Europe, while critiquing the liberal vision of the future endorsed by President Emmanuel Macron, characterizing it as a tragedy for the continent.

He claimed that weak leadership in Brussels utilizes crises to centralize power and diminish the autonomy of nation-states.

Pointing to his wish for a resurgence of conservative, national, and Christian representation in Europe, Orbán mentioned his collaboration with Donald Trump regarding tariffs and welcomed the former U.S. president's cessation of funding for progressive NGOs and media in Hungary, which he regarded as violations of national sovereignty.

In reference to Hungary's policy on LGBTQ+ rights, Orbán stated that the country's constitution prioritizes the protection of children's rights over other rights, including the right to assembly.

He affirmed, "There is freedom in Hungary; come and see for yourself."