Orbán portrays Von der Leyen: ‘Corruption is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s time to go’
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has announced that Thursday will be a “turbulent day” in the European Parliament, as a motion of no confidence is set to be debated against the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. Orbán made it clear that this is a significant moment, emphasizing that “corruption is just the tip of the iceberg” when it comes to the issues facing the current European leadership. His remarks highlight deep dissatisfaction with the Commission’s handling of various matters under Von der Leyen’s tenure.
In a message posted on social media, Orbán framed the upcoming vote as a crucial choice for Europe’s future. “Tomorrow is the moment of truth: on one side, the imperial elite of Brussels; on the other, the patriots and common sense,” he stated. He urged decision-makers not to evade the reality of the situation, insisting that “a decision must be made.” He further described the debate as one about “competence, results, and the future of Europe,” indicating that the stakes go beyond politics and touch on the core direction the European Union should take moving forward.
Orbán also used this opportunity to criticize a range of European policies implemented under Von der Leyen’s leadership. He singled out issues such as illegal immigration, the promotion of gender ideology, and what he called “senseless green ideology.” In a direct message to the Commission President, Orbán argued, “Madam President, leadership means responsibility. It’s time to go!”
The motion of no confidence itself was initiated by a group of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) representing far-right and populist parties. These MEPs accuse Von der Leyen of a lack of transparency in how she negotiated the purchase of coronavirus vaccines with major pharmaceutical companies. They argue that this opacity has undermined trust and accountability within the EU’s vaccine procurement process, fueling further controversy around her leadership.
