### Hungarian PM's Aide Criticized for Remarks on Ukraine's War Strategy

A top aide to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has faced backlash after suggesting that Hungary would not have defended itself against a Russian invasion like Ukraine did. Balázs Orbán, the political director for Viktor Orbán and not related to him, made these comments during a podcast interview with a conservative Hungarian news outlet.

Balázs Orbán stated that Hungary would likely not have taken the same approach as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, deeming it "irresponsible" to have engaged in a defensive war. His remarks, reported by the Hungarian outlet Telex, cited the heavy loss of lives and territory suffered by Ukraine. He said that while it was Ukraine's sovereign decision to defend itself, Hungary would not have recommended such a path.

The aide referenced Hungary's own history with the Soviet Union, particularly the 1956 uprising that resulted in a brutal crackdown by Moscow's forces. At least 2,700 people were killed, and over 180,000 fled the country during that period. Balázs Orbán emphasized the need to protect Hungarian lives more cautiously.

The comments have sparked significant outrage among opposition politicians in Hungary. Despite the backlash, Balázs Orbán defended his stance, claiming that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians had died "for nothing." He later took to social media, accusing the reports of his remarks of being "fake news" and asserting that the 1956 events should not be compared to the current Russia-Ukraine war. He also reiterated Hungary's "pro-peace" position.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has tried to downplay his aide's controversial statements, suggesting the comments were confusingly phrased but asserting that Hungary would defend itself if necessary. Viktor Orbán, known as Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest ally within the European Union, has been against sanctions on Russia and military aid to Ukraine. He has repeatedly accused the EU of prolonging the conflict by providing military support to Ukraine.

The controversy comes amid admiration of the hard-right Fidesz government by certain figures in the United States. Former President Donald Trump, a past supporter of Viktor Orbán, has expressed similar sentiments regarding negotiations with Putin. Trump referenced Russian and Soviet military history to argue for striking a deal, acknowledging the harsh realities of conflict.

Balázs Orbán's contentious remarks have reignited debates about Hungary's stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, positioning the country at odds with much of the European bloc and highlighting the complexities of its foreign policy under Viktor Orbán's leadership.