(MENAFN) Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made a bold call for Ursula von der Leyen to step down from her role as president of the European Commission, labeling her five-year tenure as the "worst" in the history of the European Union. Speaking to reporters from the German media group Funke on Sunday, Orban criticized von der Leyen's leadership, particularly highlighting what he perceives as failures in the European Union's green transition and migration policies.

Orban expressed discontent with the direction taken by the European Commission under von der Leyen, asserting that these policies have been detrimental to the economic and industrial interests of the European Union member states. He emphasized that the recent European Parliament elections, which saw significant gains for right-wing parties across Europe, reflect a widespread desire for change in Brussels.

"The past five years have been perhaps the worst five years in the history of the European Union. The successes of the European Commission and the Brussels elite are weak," Orban stated, underscoring the need for efficient leadership capable of addressing the structural challenges facing the European Union.

Despite the electoral shift towards right-wing parties in several key member states, Orban expressed dissatisfaction with the continuation of the current ruling coalition's dominance in Brussels. He pointed out a perceived disconnect between voter preferences and the composition of the European Parliament.

Von der Leyen, who is seeking a second term as European Commission president, has outlined her vision to strengthen Europe and maintain a pro-Ukraine stance amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges. Her leadership aspirations are centered on building a broad majority to support a robust European agenda, despite criticisms from Orban and others regarding the efficacy of her leadership and policy directions.

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