Magyar Challenges Orbán on Hungary’s Western Path

Tisza Party Leader Proposes Joint Transcarpathia Visit, Criticizes PM’s Eastern Leanings

Péter Magyar, leader of the Tisza Party, delivered a significant speech in Székesfehérvár, outlining his vision for Hungary’s place in Europe and the world. His address, delivered shortly after Prime Minister Viktor Orbán‘s speech in Tusványos, presented a starkly different approach to foreign policy and national identity.

Echoes of History, Call for Peace

Magyar began by invoking Hungary’s historical greats, including St. Stephen, King Béla IV, and King Matthias, as figures who “set the direction” for the nation. He referred to Székesfehérvár as “the oldest Hungarian metropolis,” underscoring its historical significance as the coronation site of Hungarian kings.

Turning to the conflict in Ukraine, Magyar unequivocally placed responsibility on Vladimir Putin for the February 2022 invasion. He stressed that achieving peace requires proactive diplomatic effort, not passive acceptance of propaganda. He called for leaders to engage directly with the Russian president, suggesting that if a peace plan acceptable to Ukraine were on the table, dialogue with the “Russian dictator” would be essential.

“This is expressed and, from solidarity for our Transcarpathian Hungarian brothers, should be able to personally talk to our Hungarian brothers and tragedies.”

—Péter Magyar, President of the Tisza Party

Magyar extended a surprising invitation to Viktor Orbán: a joint visit to Transcarpathia. The aim, he explained, would be to offer solidarity and direct support to the Hungarian community there, based on their own expressed needs.

Critique of Current Government Policy

The Tisza Party leader criticized the current government’s approach to national security and political discourse, stating that a functioning state does not risk its security or accuse opponents of espionage. He specifically denounced the resurfacing of accusations, which he labeled as baseless propaganda, linking them to George Soros.

Magyar asserted that Hungary must align itself with freedom and cooperation, advocating for firm integration with the West. He declared that the era of “back and forth commuting between the East and the West” is over, firmly placing Hungary’s future “in Europe.” Credibility within the Western community, he argued, hinges on clear and principled engagement, while respecting the sovereignty of other nations.

Hungary, he continued, should actively promote peace through diplomacy rather than exacerbating tensions. He referenced Hungary’s historical path, stating, “We know since King St. Stephen that we Hungarians have one way, and this is not the dead end of Europe, the road to the east.”

“We have chosen for 1100 years and ‘we will never let it go.’”

—Péter Magyar, President of the Tisza Party

Magyar criticized Orbán‘s European policy, comparing his approach to that of an “uneducated child in the candy store.” He alleged that the Prime Minister’s vetoes are aimed at preserving his own power and wealth, not serving Hungary’s interests.

Economic Stability and International Relations

Addressing economic policy, Magyar advocated for responsible fiscal management, urging the government to secure domestic funding rather than relying on loans from Arab nations or China. He stressed that the Tisza Party would only accept compromises that fully consider Hungarian interests. He also noted that a significant majority of Hungarians do not support Ukraine’s accelerated EU accession or the current EU budget proposal.

The “Prophet of the Iron Curtain”

Recalling Hungary’s decisive 2003 referendum on EU membership, Magyar highlighted the nation’s clear choice for the West. He sharply criticized Viktor Orbán, branding him “the prophet of the Iron Curtain,” while affirming the Hungarian people’s belief in freedom and Europe.

Magyar emphasized the need for a renewed sense of national pride and a focus on attracting young talent back to Hungary. He stated that professionals are joining the Tisza Party daily to build a functional Hungary that thrives both domestically and internationally.

“In his view, they offer a ‘enforceable professional program and a real social contract’ when preparing for governance. It is necessary to seek a fair relationship with neighboring countries, not to launch ‘poster campaigns against them’ or ‘make kamu videos.’”

—Péter Magyar, President of the Tisza Party

As a NATO member, Hungary should leverage its alliance with the world’s strongest military power, rather than engaging in pacts with authoritarian regimes, Magyar argued.

Strengthening Regional Ties

He underscored the importance of the Visegrád Group (V4) for regional stability and influence, recalling past successes in EU budget negotiations. Magyar accused Viktor Orbán of damaging Polish-Hungarian relations through his “Russian-friendly politics.” He vowed that the first foreign trips of a Tisza government would be to Warsaw, Vienna, and Brussels to strengthen regional ties, restore investor confidence, reduce reliance on Russian energy, and establish regional centers for artificial intelligence and diplomacy.

Magyar promised to foster a Hungary where citizens feel valued for their knowledge, talent, and work. Citing Oscar Jászi, he warned against oligarchic influence undermining national power, stating that a successful foreign policy is impossible under such conditions. He criticized Orbán‘s policies as a “rocking policy” doomed to failure and emphasized the need for peaceful, respectful neighborly relations.

The 2026 elections, Magyar declared, will be a referendum on Hungary’s membership in the EU and NATO. He also addressed critical issues such as migration, the impact of climate change on drought, and sustainable water management. He highlighted the social implications of artificial intelligence and the Tisza Islands program, aimed at strengthening human connections.

“If a country remains alone, it is not safe, and the Tisza government would not do ‘double speaking’ on migration.”

—Péter Magyar, President of the Tisza Party

A Tisza government would maintain border defenses, reject migrant quotas, and prevent convicted criminals from entering freely. Magyar also pointed to weaknesses in internal security, labor shortages, and insufficient resources for law enforcement, citing the public’s financial well-being as a key indicator of prosperity.

He criticized Viktor Orbán for focusing on abstract pronouncements rather than tangible issues like healthcare, education, and transportation, stating that the vision for Hungary’s future has been lost. He noted that many young Hungarians see their future in the West, contributing to a record low birth rate.

Magyar concluded by affirming his commitment is for Hungary’s children and all Hungarians, not against his former political allies. He stressed that loyalty is to the country, not a party, and that those who endanger Hungary’s future must be confronted. He accused Orbán of coordinating with extremists and jeopardizing EU membership, framing the 2026 election as a crucial moment to halt the Prime Minister’s divisive tactics.