A dramatic political development has unfolded in European Union, as Hungary’s new Prime Minister, immediately after taking office, rejected up to 90% of the EU’s demands — including refusing to adopt the Migration Pact. This decision is being seen as a powerful “diplomatic slap” directed at Ursula von der Leyen and Western leaders, who had previously celebrated the change in leadership in Hungary.

The recent election in Hungary saw the defeat of former leader Viktor Orbán — a result initially welcomed by EU officials as well as international figures such as Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

Ursula von der Leyen even released a congratulatory video, stating that “Hungary has returned to the heart of Europe, where it belongs,” presenting the outcome as a victory for fundamental freedoms.

However, this optimism quickly collapsed. Despite Orbán’s defeat, the new leader remains firmly rooted on the right. Political analysts believe this change does not represent a shift toward liberal or left-wing policies, but rather a transition between two equally firm conservative figures — more of a reshuffling within the same ideological camp than the transformation Brussels had expected.

Shortly after taking office, the new Hungarian leader made several strong statements that shattered the EU’s expectations:

• Rejection of the Migration Pact: Hungary will not participate in any migrant redistribution mechanism and will further strengthen its borders. The Prime Minister emphasized that the country will not become a “dumping ground for illegal migrants.”
• Refusal of 90% of EU demands: The government accepted only anti-corruption measures, rejecting the vast majority of proposals coming from Brussels.

  

• Core conservative policies: Priority for Hungarian citizens, tax exemptions for mothers with two or more children, and open opposition to Ukraine’s accession to the EU.

The migration issue remains a major point of tension between Hungary and the European Union. Brussels has imposed fines of up to €1 million per day on Hungary for refusing migrant quotas.

Despite this heavy financial pressure, Budapest remains inflexible. The government argues that paying the fines is still less costly than the long-term social and security consequences of mass immigration — a burden some compare to the billions spent annually by countries like the United Kingdom.

Experts suggest that Hungarian voters did not reject Orbán due to a desire for more liberal or pro-migration policies. On the contrary, many still support a right-wing government focused on border security. Their dissatisfaction was more related to Orbán’s ties with Vladimir Putin and allegations of corruption within his administration.

This strong political stance from Budapest is expected to intensify tensions with EU leaders and place Ursula von der Leyen in an increasingly difficult position on the international stage.

Hungary’s position represents not just a political disagreement, but a broader ideological conflict — one that could further deepen internal divisions within the European Union in the months ahead.