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Orbán: Ukraine’s collapse would be a disaster for Hungary

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán warned that Ukraine's collapse must be prevented to protect Hungary's national interests and property values, citing critical energy ties.

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Dec 22, 2025 - 00:05

Orbán: Ukraine’s collapse would be a disaster for Hungary

WISE NEWS PRESS / BUDAPEST, HUNGARY — DEC. 22, 2025

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated on Sunday that Budapest must make every effort to prevent the collapse of Ukraine, describing such an eventuality as a "disaster" that would directly threaten Hungary’s security and economic stability.

Speaking in the city of Szeged as part of a nationwide tour, Orbán emphasized that preserving Ukraine's integrity is vital for Hungary to "maintain the value of its own lands." The Prime Minister, who faces a significant opposition challenge after 15 years in power, is increasingly centering his election campaign on his extensive foreign policy experience.

Strategic Neighborhood and Property Value

In a metaphor directed at his domestic audience, Orbán linked geopolitical stability to local economics. "Nobody should be mistaken: the collapse of Ukraine would be a disaster for Hungary," he told supporters. "People in the countryside—and real estate speculators—know very well that the value of the land you own depends not only on its condition but also on the condition of the neighboring plot and who lives there."

Critical Energy Infrastructure

Orbán provided specific data to underline Hungary's role as a logistical hub for its neighbor. He revealed that Ukraine currently sources 44% of its electricity and 56% of its natural gas through Hungary. The Prime Minister noted that a significant portion of this energy originates from Russian sources, a point Hungarian officials have previously used to defend their ongoing diplomatic and economic ties with Moscow.

Diplomatic Divergence

The Prime Minister’s remarks follow a series of statements that have set Budapest apart from the broader international consensus. Just a day prior, Orbán drew criticism for stating it was "difficult to decide who attacked whom" regarding the Russian invasion. On Saturday, he reiterated his stance that continued Western military support for Ukraine only serves to prolong the conflict, arguing that a prolonged war is not in Ukraine’s best interest.