Op-ed – The Hungarian connection: How Moscow’s money captured Budapest

Hungary faces growing criticism for drifting away from EU principles. While Prime Minister Viktor Orbán defends national interests, the country’s close ties with Moscow and internal corruption raise questions about its future place in Europe.

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For decades, Hungary was seen as one of Europe’s post-communist success stories — a country that embraced democracy, modernization, and European values. But in recent years, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has led the nation down a very different path, one that mixes nationalism, economic control, and increasing political dependence on Moscow.

At first glance, Hungary looks stable. Budapest shines with modern buildings, new stadiums, and impressive highways. Much of this development was funded by the European Union, which provides billions of euros each year to support infrastructure, education, and innovation. But beneath the surface lies a growing concern — where is all the money going, and who truly benefits?

Critics say that EU funds have become a lifeline for a small group of businessmen closely tied to the ruling Fidesz party. Names like Lőrinc Mészáros and István Tiborcz, once unknown, are now symbols of a new elite class whose wealth grew rapidly thanks to state contracts. These businessmen win tenders for construction, energy, and public projects, often without competition.

One of the most controversial projects is the Paks II nuclear power plant, developed with Russia’s Rosatom. The deal, financed largely by a Russian loan, has raised eyebrows in Brussels for its lack of transparency. Critics fear that such projects increase Hungary’s energy dependence on Moscow at a time when most EU countries are trying to diversify away from Russian influence.

At the same time, Orbán’s government continues to receive discounted Russian gas and maintains a pragmatic relationship with the Kremlin. Supporters argue that this is about protecting national interests and keeping energy prices low. But opponents see it as a dangerous political trade-off — cheap gas in exchange for political alignment.

This dual game — money from Brussels, energy from Moscow — defines Hungary’s current strategy. It allows Orbán to present himself domestically as a defender of Hungarian sovereignty while using European funds to maintain political loyalty at home. Yet this balancing act is becoming harder to sustain as EU institutions demand stronger anti-corruption reforms.

Tensions reached a new level when Hungary repeatedly blocked or delayed EU sanctions against Russia and aid packages for Ukraine. In Brussels, many officials now describe Hungary as a “hostage” within the Union — a member state that benefits from EU resources while undermining its common values.

Despite these controversies, Orbán remains popular among many Hungarians, especially outside major cities. His message of national pride, conservative values, and economic protectionism still resonates. But Hungary’s long-term challenge is clear: the country must choose whether it will fully commit to the European project or continue walking the fine line between East and West.

The world is watching. For the European Union, Hungary is not just another member state — it’s a test of how far the EU can tolerate internal divergence before its unity begins to break.

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