Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has vowed to crack down on politicians, journalists, and NGOs that receive funding from abroad. Addressing a crowd of supporters in Budapest, Orban called for the elimination of what he described as a “shadow army” of organizations serving the interests of the EU and a “liberal American empire.”
Orban’s comments come after recent steps taken by the US to dismantle USAID, which he claims was used to fund liberal causes in Hungary. His Fidesz party has submitted constitutional changes that would allow for the expulsion of Hungarian dual citizens deemed a threat to national security.
The move is seen as part of Orban’s efforts to distance himself from the European Union and strengthen his own authority. He reiterated his opposition to Ukraine joining the bloc, criticizing Brussels for continuing military aid to Kyiv in the war with Russia.
However, opposition leader Peter Magyar has rallied support against Orban, promising to end his 15-year rule and make Hungary part of a strong Europe. Independent polls show Magyar’s Tisza party neck-and-neck or ahead of Fidesz, raising questions about Orban’s survival chances in the 2026 elections.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/hungarys-orban-vows-crackdown-on-media-ngos/a-71932327