Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has publicly clashed with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán over misleading statements about Sweden. In a podcast, Kristersson explained his decision to confront Orbán, emphasizing the importance of defending Sweden's reputation. The dispute highlights tensions between the two leaders, with Kristersson accusing Hungary of obstructing EU support for Ukraine.
Kristersson Confronts Orbán: A Diplomatic Clash Over Sweden's Image
Kristersson Confronts Orbán: A Diplomatic Clash Over Sweden's Image
The war of words between them has garnered significant attention. In Expressen's podcast "Viktor möter," Ulf Kristersson explains why he has publicly clashed with Orbán and delivers another critique.
"If you reacted to everything stupid he says, you wouldn't have time to work," he states.
The major dispute between Hungary's Prime Minister and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson erupted earlier this week.
Orbán, in a video clip on X, criticized the "collapse" he claims Sweden is experiencing, sitting astride a backward-facing chair. He has also spread false information about crime in Sweden, including incorrect figures on the number of girls arrested for murder.
"Outrageous lies," Kristersson responded, calling the Prime Minister "desperate."
Since then, the two leaders have continued to attack each other in various posts on X.
When Ulf Kristersson appears in Expressen's podcast "Viktor möter" with Viktor Barth-Kron, he elaborates on why he has clashed with Orbán.
"It was pure fabrications, pure lies. I also have a responsibility for the image of Sweden that is spread worldwide," the Prime Minister asserts.
He claims that Orbán's smearing of Sweden is related to the upcoming election in Hungary and states he does not want to be part of that campaign.
Isn't that exactly what you become?
"I want to point out that we have a strong relationship with many Hungarians. There is a large Hungarian community in Sweden, which I think is very nice to have here. We have strong historical ties."
"I just want to emphasize that the way he conducts politics and involves other countries, when he is facing a real challenger for power for the first time in modern times."
Kristersson accuses Hungary of acting as a roadblock regarding support for Ukraine.
"I have sat in so many European summits where it is everyone against him. He threatens to block sanctions, threatens to block EU membership. To me, it is incomprehensible."