Kathrine Frich
His words mark a harder stance than Hungary has shown before.
His words mark a harder stance than Hungary has shown before.
Orbán promises to shoot down drones over Hungary
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán declared that if Russian drones violate Hungarian airspace, they would be destroyed.
He said, “As far as I know, yes. We are not afraid of it, and of course we will shoot them down.”
His words mark a harder stance than Hungary has shown before.
Europe is stronger, but acts weak, says Orbán
Orbán criticized Western Europe for behaving as though it were weak.
He insisted:
“We [Europe] are stronger in all aspects. I have never understood why, being stronger, we talk as if we are weak. Russia is weak compared to us, weak militarily, economically and also numerically.”
His remarks challenge the political tone in many EU capitals.
Drones possibly crossing from Hungary into Ukraine
Ukrainian President Zelensky recently reported that reconnaissance drones, potentially Hungarian, may have flown over Ukraine’s territory.
The possible violations sparked cross‑border tension, prompting Kyiv to prepare a military response should they happen again.
Hungarian drone entry denied — then partly admitted
Hungary’s Foreign Minister initially called the accusations lies.
Later, Orbán conceded that drones might have flown a few metres over the border, but claimed that minor incursions “were not too important.”
His reversal raises questions about Hungary’s role on the border.
Hungary’s closeness to Russia complicates stance
Orbán’s government has maintained friendlier ties with Moscow than most EU or NATO members.
Hungary has criticized EU sanctions and frequently promotes a nationalist, non-aligned foreign policy.
Now, by threatening to shoot down drones, Orbán risks irritating both Russia and his Western allies.
Hybrid warfare is a reality
Throughout September, drone incursions have been reported across European skies — including in Denmark, Norway, and Poland.
Though unconfirmed, the drones are widely believed to be of Russian origin.
Some countries shot them down, others did not. But the incidents have raised alarm about growing hybrid threats.
EU plans a “drone wall” in response
To combat these incursions, EU defense ministers are discussing a coordinated “drone wall” across exposed borders.
This would include radars, jammers, and rapid-response systems to detect and neutralize drone threats.
The wall would cover nations like Denmark, Poland, Norway, and Romania, creating a shared European defense line.
Hungary torn between East and West
Hungary already walks a tightrope between alliance loyalty and national interest.
Hungary’s new statements depart from a more passive or accommodating posture within NATO and the EU.
By threatening force and criticizing Western Europe’s tone, Orbán signals a more independent and assertive foreign policy—even if it conflicts with alliance norms.
This article is made and published by Kathrine Frich, which may have used AI in the preparation
