Orban Declares Fears of Russian Attack on NATO “Ridiculous,” Praises Merkel’s Approach
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has dismissed concerns about a potential Russian attack on the European Union or NATO as “ridiculous,” asserting that the EU possesses substantially greater military strength. “With all due respect, I think it is indeed ridiculous to say that Russia will attack the EU or NATO simply as it is not strong enough,” Orban stated in an interview with Axel Springer CEO Mathias Döpfner’s “MD meets” podcast. He highlighted the EU’s population of 400 million compared to Russia’s approximately 140 million, and emphasized the larger military capacities of the 27 EU member states. “The Russians have failed to fully occupy Ukraine for more than three years.How can we in Europe claim that we are weaker than Russia?”
Orban also cautioned against a Russian military defeat in Ukraine, warning that such an outcome could raise the risk of nuclear escalation. “If a nuclear power loses a conventional war, then I am absolutely certain (…) then the nuclear risk is immediately on the table,” he said.
The Hungarian leader criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, claiming he is “for war,” while contrasting his stance with that of former Chancellor Angela Merkel. Orban described instances where he and Merkel were the sole voices advocating for peace and cooperation within the European Council, despite disagreements on other issues. “She sometimes even shouted at me - and that wasn’t good – more often than my wife,” Orban remarked.
