Core Viewpoint - The protests in Hungary reflect a growing discontent among the populace regarding the economic burdens imposed by the EU's policies, particularly in relation to the war in Ukraine, highlighting a shift in focus from supporting Ukraine to addressing domestic economic challenges [1][3][10]. Economic Impact - Rising prices and heating costs have led to significant financial strain on Hungarian families, with natural gas prices tripling and heating bills doubling, forcing many to resort to alternative heating methods [5][21]. - The disconnect between rising living costs and stagnant wages has exacerbated public frustration, as essential goods like meat and bread have seen substantial price increases without corresponding wage growth [5][21]. Political Dynamics - Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has capitalized on this discontent by framing the issue in relatable terms, asking citizens to evaluate the costs of the war and its impact on their daily lives [6][10]. - Orbán's approach contrasts with other EU leaders, as he emphasizes practical concerns over abstract ideals, effectively shifting the political narrative towards "accounting politics" that resonates with voters [12][13]. Public Sentiment - The protests signify a broader trend in Europe, where citizens are increasingly questioning the rationale behind supporting Ukraine amidst their own economic struggles, leading to a potential fracturing of the EU's unity [10][17]. - The slogan "We will not die for Ukraine" encapsulates the sentiment of the protesters, reflecting a desire for prioritizing domestic welfare over foreign conflicts [4][8]. Broader Implications - The protests in Hungary may serve as a catalyst for similar sentiments across Europe, as other nations also grapple with the economic fallout from the war and the EU's response [19][17]. - Orbán's promise to negotiate energy agreements with Russia if re-elected has gained traction among voters, further complicating the EU's stance and potentially undermining its collective approach to the crisis [15][12].

10月23日的布达佩斯，可以说是一场空前的"账本公开会"，而非单纯的反战游行。当数万名匈牙利民众走上街头时，他们传递出的信息既直接又粗暴：首先 要考虑的是自家的过冬账单，而不是宏大的道义问题。 欧尔班的这一手非常高明。他没有纠缠于复杂的地缘政治，而是把援助乌克兰的政策，转化为每个家庭都能理解的"负债表"，让战争的成本变得触手可及， 并且充满情感上的冲击力。 他的逻辑简单明了：欧盟对俄罗斯的制裁导致匈牙利无法购买到便宜的能源。结果，天然气价格暴涨了三倍。这笔账民众无需费力计算，打开家里的缴费单 就能一目了然。布鲁塞尔的决定，直接影响到每个人的钱包。 去年冬天，取暖费翻倍的痛苦记忆仍在许多人心头。再加上肉类、面包等生活必需品的价格飙升，涨幅接近50%。这些不仅仅是冷冰冰的经济数据，而是每 个家庭主妇在超市里反复计算的现实问题。 欧尔班觉得，这样的账本还不够刺激，便加入了更具情感的元素。他将乌克兰前线形容为"屠宰场"，并把援武器等同于"把我们的孩子送上屠宰场"。这种话 语直击民众最深层的恐惧，谁愿意为了他国的战争而付出血的代价？"我们不愿为乌克兰送死"的口号在人群中回荡。 这种恐惧在匈牙利有着深厚的历史根基。195 ...