We cannot allow the logic of war to dictate Europe’s future

Press release by György Hölvényi

“Strengthening the European defense industry is an important strategic goal, there is no dispute about that,” said György Hölvényi, KDNP Member of the European Parliament, during the plenary debate on European defense in Strasbourg. According to him, Hungary agrees with strengthening independent defense capabilities, as this is clearly in the national interest.

György Hölvényi pointed out that the report currently under discussion on European defense preparedness would redirect funds intended for the Member States not toward the development of independent European defense capabilities, but toward financing the Ukrainian war machine. “This document would oblige EU countries to support Ukraine at the expense of their own defense budgets, without any guarantees or assurances,” he said.

According to the MEP, the situation is further exacerbated by a political climate in which certain European leaders are constructing an increasingly dramatic war narrative, completely overshadowing common sense and responsible consideration. “Millions of European citizens are watching in shock to see where they want to take the continent,” he added.

György Hölvényi described as particularly dangerous proposal that would allow the use of frozen Russian assets to enable the continuous financing of Ukraine. In his view, this would set a precedent that is unprecedented in European legal history and could seriously undermine the European Union’s financial and legal security framework.

“The pro-war elite has succeeded in turning efforts aimed at a more effective defense policy into preparations for war,” György Hölvényi stated. “Europe does not need escalation—it needs peace!” he concluded.