Insider bombshell from Hungary’s military: Defence Forces officer on morale collapse and mass exits

In a rare and highly critical public appearance, Captain Szilveszter Pálinkás, an officer in the Hungarian Defence Forces, has given a lengthy video interview in which he paints a bleak picture of the military’s current state.

Hungarian Defence Forces officer speaks about the armed forces’ situation

Speaking openly and under his own name for the first time, Pálinkás claims the Hungarian Defence Forces are experiencing an unprecedented moral low point, widespread dissatisfaction among personnel and a growing desire to leave service.

He previously served as the face of the army’s national recruitment campaign, and he chose to speak out because, he thinks Hungarian citizens have a right to understand the reality of an institution funded by taxpayers. His decision to give the interview without prior approval is likely to result in disciplinary action and may ultimately end his military career.

From model soldier to outspoken critic

Pálinkás joined the military in 2017 and served in the elite Special Operations Brigade in Szolnok. Over time, he undertook advanced training, including international courses, and built a promising career. His trajectory changed when he was personally selected to become the public face of a government-backed recruitment drive, working closely with the Ministry of Defence.

However, he later became increasingly uncomfortable with what he describes as a widening gap between the optimistic image presented in official communications and the reality experienced by soldiers. According to Pálinkás, many troops were already disillusioned, with large numbers preparing to leave the service. His attempt to resign last year was rejected, officially due to the ongoing “state of war danger,” leaving him effectively unable to exit the military despite his objections.

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Strong opinion on leadership and reforms

At the heart of Pálinkás’s criticism lies the leadership of Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky. He argues that recent reforms have undermined both morale and professionalism, going so far as to claim that the current minister is the worst in the history of the Hungarian Defence Forces, who has “destroyed the military vocation” over the past four years.

Among the most contentious changes are alterations to soldiers’ legal status and compensation. Pálinkás highlighted the removal of overtime pay and allowances, which has significantly reduced incomes for many personnel. Additionally, new pay structures and the centralisation of decision-making power in the hands of commanders have, in his view, created uncertainty and opened the door to arbitrary treatment.

He also described deteriorating working conditions, including inadequate equipment and poor living environments in barracks, contrasting sharply with the polished image used in recruitment campaigns.

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He warned of mass departures

One of the most striking claims in the interview is Pálinkás’s warning that Hungary’s defence capabilities could be severely weakened if current trends continue. He suggested that many soldiers are only remaining in service due to legal constraints tied to the emergency situation and may leave en masse once restrictions are lifted. According to him, this could result in a dramatic decline in operational readiness, raising serious concerns about the country’s long-term defence capacity.

Controversial international and political issues

The captain also addressed Hungary’s position within NATO, alleging that the country’s political messaging—particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine—has created unease among allies. He claimed that Hungarian soldiers have faced questions from other NATO members about where Hungary’s loyalties lie.

In addition, Pálinkás made controversial remarks about a proposed Hungarian military mission in Chad, which he associates with Gáspár Orbán, the prime minister’s son. He criticised the idea as lacking clear national interest and warned of potentially high casualty rates, although such claims remain unverified.

A deeply divided institution

Beyond specific policies, Pálinkás portrayed a military increasingly affected by internal divisions, political tensions, and declining trust in leadership. He criticised what he sees as the politicisation of the armed forces, arguing that soldiers should remain neutral and not be drawn into partisan conflicts. Despite the severity of his claims, Pálinkás expressed hope, suggesting many within the Hungarian Defence Forces want a change of political scenery.