Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently claimed that a significant majority of Hungarian citizens are in favor of Ukraine's accession to the European Union, irrespective of the stance taken by the Hungarian government led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Zelensky referred to a survey conducted by the opposition Tisza Party, suggesting that it reflects this support among the Hungarian populace for Ukraine.

In a statement, Zelensky emphasized, "It does not matter what Viktor Orbán says, it does not matter what the Hungarian government says, it is irrelevant what Fidesz and KDNP want.

A survey conducted by the Tisza Party indicates that Hungarians support Ukraine and Ukraine's EU membership.

Good day, that is concluded."

In response, Tamás Menczer, a politician from the ruling Fidesz-KDNP coalition, criticized Zelensky's assertions.

He suggested that Zelensky may have commissioned the survey conducted by the Tisza Party, questioning its credibility.

Menczer noted discrepancies between Zelensky's claim of 70% support and the actual survey results, which indicated a support level of 58% regarding Ukraine's EU membership.

Menczer also highlighted the importance of the upcoming elections, urging the public to be aware of the implications this issue carries for future voting decisions.

In a separate interview, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressed concerns about the potential risks posed by Ukraine's military presence and its implications for Hungary.

He stated, "There is no guarantee that the Ukrainian army will not turn against us." Orbán remarked on the European Commission's pressure to limit Hungary's access to Russian energy resources, indicating this could significantly increase energy costs for Hungarian families.

He noted that if Ukrainian requests to halt Russian energy purchases were enacted, Hungary could face an additional annual cost of 800 billion forints to acquire energy from alternative sources.

Orbán underscored the critical nature of maintaining energy security and questioned why the Hungarian populace should bear the financial burden of actions aimed at countering Russia.

Furthermore, Orbán reiterated the strategic importance of energy infrastructure, claiming that Hungary has successfully secured its energy imports through existing agreements, including the Southern Gas Corridor with Turkey.

He cited Azerbaijan's recent cooperation in creating energy reserves for Hungary as part of this broader security strategy.

Discussing the status of Ukraine's EU membership, Orbán articulated a preference for keeping Ukraine out of the EU, asserting that its admission could financially strain Central European nations, particularly Hungary.

He referred to the ongoing public debate over EU membership and the potential negative ramifications for Hungary if Ukraine were to join.

Orbán also commented on notable increases in observed Ukrainian intelligence activity within Hungary, expressing concerns over the impact on public sentiment regarding Ukraine's bid for EU membership.

He noted that while espionage is not uncommon, the escalation of Ukrainian intelligence operations is particularly striking, with implications for Hungarian political dynamics and media narratives.

In the context of Hungary's family support programs and budget negotiations, Orbán highlighted that the focus would be on supporting families, particularly mothers.

He confirmed that new tax exemption programs are set for implementation by October 2025 and early 2026. Additionally, he announced that the Chinese company BYD would establish a development center in Hungary, emphasizing the need for foreign investment in enhancing Hungary's technological capabilities.