Lawmakers sing antifascist anthem at European Parliament as Viktor Orban faces criticism over Russia-friendly stance and democratic backsliding.
European Union officials have condemned Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for his actions that have hindered military and financial aid to Ukraine and for his democratic backsliding at home. Orban faced backlash during his address at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, where he emphasized the migration crisis and the war in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized Orban for his failure to support Ukraine and for his Russian-friendly diplomacy, labeling it a “big propaganda show for the autocrats.” Moreover, Orban’s stance on migration and security issues, such as a visa scheme for Russian nationals and a collaboration with Chinese authorities, drew further condemnation from EU officials.
Lawmakers from various political parties challenged Orban for his controversial policies, with some displaying banners calling for accountability over EU funds frozen due to rule-of-law concerns. To add to the tension, MEPs broke out in a rendition of the antifascist anthem, Bella Ciao, prompting the European Parliament president to remind them that “This is not Eurovision.”