**EU Leaders Criticize Hungarian PM Orban for Undermining Democracy and Supporting Russia**

Top officials in the European Union have strongly criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, accusing him of undermining democratic principles at home and adopting a pro-Russia stance that has prevented military and financial assistance to Ukraine. During a session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, Orban warned about the "migration crisis" and the ongoing war in Ukraine, sparking widespread condemnation.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spearheaded the criticism, condemning Hungary's delay in backing EU aid for Kyiv and its refusal to engage in Western efforts to arm Ukraine against Russian aggression. "The world has witnessed the atrocities of Russia's war. And yet, there are still some who blame this war not on the invader but the invaded," von der Leyen stated. She further emphasized that blame should not be placed on Ukraine's desire for freedom but on Russian President Vladimir Putin's pursuit of power.

Orban faced additional backlash for his diplomatic decisions, particularly his uncoordinated visits to Moscow and Beijing in July, characterized by the Hungarian government as a "peace mission." Manfred Weber, leader of the conservative European People's Party, criticized Orban's speech for its failure to address Ukraine's struggles, calling it a "big propaganda show for the autocrats."

Orban's tenure has been marked by frequent clashes with Brussels over his restrictive policies on civil rights since he took office in 2010. Green party co-leader Terry Reintke openly declared Orban unwelcome, asserting, "This is the house of European democracy."

Von der Leyen also rebuked Hungary's stance on migration, highlighting the early release of convicted human traffickers as an irresponsible act that passes problems onto neighboring states. She criticized a visa scheme for Russian nationals for its lack of security checks, labeling it a threat to all EU member states.

Additionally, von der Leyen expressed concern over an agreement allowing Chinese police officers to patrol within Hungary alongside local law enforcement, arguing that it jeopardizes European sovereignty and invites foreign interference.

Mainstream members of the European Parliament had vowed to hold Orban accountable, with Hungarian opposition leader-turned-MEP Peter Magyar among those prepared to challenge him. Left-wing lawmakers displayed banners reading "No cash for corrupt" in reference to suspended EU funds, estimated in the billions of euros, over rule-of-law issues.

Following Orban's address, opposition lawmakers broke into the antifascist anthem "Bella Ciao," prompting European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to restore order, reminding them, "This is not Eurovision."