The survey highlights that there is a social consensus in Hungary to end the armed conflict as soon as possible and to cease combat operations immediately. It can be concluded that
National unity in favour of a ceasefire and peace talks
The Government of Hungary is pursuing a pro-peace policy in the context of the Russo-Ukrainian War, the main element of which is to promote an immediate ceasefire instead of encouraging further escalation of the conflict. In addition to the Vice-President of the European Commission, Vera Jourová, and U.S. Ambassador David Pressman, several international actors have criticised Hungary's position with the intention of exerting political pressure. Liberal MEP Guy Verhofstadt complained that Viktor Orban was "still sabotaging sanctions against Russia" and demanded that Hungary’s voting rights in the European Council be revoked. In addition, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Jevhen Perebiynis expressed disappointment over Hungary “blocking sanctions against Russia”. In the context of these international criticisms, Századvég examined public attitudes towards the Russo-Ukrainian armed conflict and the sanctions policies of Brussels and the Biden administration.
An overwhelming majority is in favour of an immediate, compromise end to the war
91 percent of Hungarians believe that the Russo-Ukrainian War must end immediately, and the parties must be brought to the negotiating table.
The proportion of those who believe that the armed conflict must continue until Vladimir Putin is defeated is only 7 percent. The considerable public support for ending the war as soon as possible can be traced back, among other things, to the fact that
62 percent of those surveyed believe that in the end neither side can emerge victorious from the war conflict.
Seven out of ten Hungarians say sanctions have harmed Europe
Brussels and the Biden administration have taken a pro-sanctions stance since the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian armed conflict in an attempt to curb Russia's military ambitions. Based on the research, it can be clearly stated that the public considers the punitive measures introduced so far to be harmful to Europe, contrary to their original purpose.
Seventy percent of respondents stated that, overall, the sanctions caused damage to Europe, including Hungary.
Thus, despite
the pro-war and pro-sanctions international criticisms, the Hungarian government’s policy on the Russo-Ukrainian crisis is not only in line with the expectations of the majority but can also be considered a fairly unified national position.
Methodology
CATI-method, n=1000, among the Hungarian adult population, data collection: February 2023