Hungarian PM Orbán's Aide Calls Ukraine Defending Itself Against Russia "Irresponsible"

A senior aide to Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Balázs Orbán, sparked debate by implying that Hungary might have been better off not resisting the Soviet invasion in 1956, while also criticizing Ukraine's current efforts to repel Russian forces.

This was reported by Reuters citing Orbán’s political director Balázs Orbán in an interview with Mandiner.

“Considering 1956, we would have probably not done what President Zelenskyy did 2.5 years ago, as it is irresponsible, as we can see that he led his country into a defensive war, many lives were lost and territories lost,” the aide said. 

“Let me say again, it is their right and sovereign decision [...] but had they asked us, we would have not recommended this, based on what happened in 1956," he added. “Because we have learned that one has to be cautious here, and one has to treat the very precious Hungarian lives with great care. They cannot simply be thrown before others.”

Hungary's 1956 anti-Soviet revolution was brutally suppressed by the Red Army. The anniversary of the uprising, October 23, is a significant national day for Hungarians.

During a national radio address on Friday, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán emphasized the need to speak very carefully on such sensitive issues, 

“Now my political director made an ambiguous statement which is a mistake, as our community stands on the basis of the 1956 revolution, has grown from it," said Orbán, adding that,  just as in the past, Hungary will "always defend itself”.