Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is ramping up his confrontation with the European Union, asserting that the organization poses a greater threat to Hungary than Russia. This claim comes as his party, Fidesz, faces its most significant electoral challenge yet, being ten points behind the opposition leader, Péter Magyar, in recent polls. With only eight weeks until the elections on April 12, Orban's rhetoric reflects a strategic shift to galvanize his support base by portraying the EU as an imminent danger to Hungary's sovereignty.

In a speech delivered to supporters, Orban emphasized that Hungarians should not fear Moscow but rather Brussels, highlighting a growing sentiment among nationalist leaders in Europe who criticize the EU's influence on member states. This narrative aligns with Fidesz's campaign strategy, which aims to rally voters around a common cause of resisting external pressures, particularly from the EU, which has been critical of Hungary’s policies in areas such as immigration, rule of law, and democratic governance.

As the election date approaches, the political landscape in Hungary is tense. Orban’s populist approach has garnered a loyal following since he regained power in 2010, but the current polling indicates a volatile situation. The emergence of the centrist opposition under Magyar signifies potential shifts in voter sentiment, and how effectively Orban can leverage his anti-EU stance amidst economic and social challenges will be crucial for his party's prospects in the election.