Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban, currently serving as the rotating President of the European Union, is facing mounting criticism as he navigates a tumultuous political landscape. On September 18, 2024, Orban canceled a scheduled appearance at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, citing severe flooding in Hungary that required his presence in Budapest. This absence has raised eyebrows, as many EU lawmakers had anticipated a contentious discussion regarding Orban's controversial leadership.
Despite being in a position meant for neutral mediation, Orban's presidency has been marked by escalating tensions with EU institutions. Critics, including EU parliamentarians and member states, have expressed discontent over his unilateral actions, such as initiating a self-declared peace mission regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine without proper EU mandate. This has led to accusations that he is misusing his position for personal political gain, including potential engagements with figures like Donald Trump in the U.S.
Moreover, Hungary continues to defy EU rulings, notably ignoring a European Court of Justice decision regarding its asylum procedures, resulting in a hefty financial penalty. The EU has withheld approximately 20 billion euros in funds from Hungary due to concerns over rule of law and corruption. Orban's government has threatened legal action against the EU to reclaim funds spent on border security, further straining relations.
The situation has left many questioning Hungary's role within the EU, with some lawmakers advocating for the revocation of its presidency. As tensions persist, the next confrontation looms, with implications for EU unity and governance in the face of Orban's increasingly assertive stance.