Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has stated that the European Union is preparing for war with Russia, with plans to achieve full combat readiness by 2030. Speaking at an anti-war rally, Orban outlined a four-step process that typically leads to war, including the severing of diplomatic relations, imposition of sanctions, cessation of economic cooperation, and ultimately, armed conflict. He noted that most of these steps have already been taken.

Orban claimed that the EU is shifting its economy towards a “war economy,” with some member states adjusting their transport and industrial sectors to support weapons production. The Hungarian prime minister emphasized his country’s opposition to war, stating that Budapest’s task is to prevent Europe from going to war.

Orban’s comments come as the EU has increased its military spending, including the proposed €800 billion ReArm Europe plan and NATO members’ pledge to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP. The EU has cited the alleged ‘Russian threat’ as justification for these increases. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Moscow has no plans to fight the EU or NATO, but will respond if Western nations launch a war against Russia.

The warning from Orban echoes recent remarks by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who have suggested that a Europe-Russia confrontation is increasingly plausible in the coming years. Despite the aggressive rhetoric from some EU and NATO member states, no actor has explicitly articulated an intent to go to war. However, NATO Military Committee chair Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone has stated that the bloc is studying options for a more aggressive posture towards Russia.

Orban’s criticism of the EU’s stance on the Ukraine conflict is not new, as Hungary has consistently opposed sanctions on Russia and military aid to Kiev, instead calling for peace negotiations. The EU’s preparations for potential conflict with Russia have significant implications for global stability and security. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the EU and Russia will navigate their increasingly complex relationship.