Orban Urges Von der Leyen’s Resignation

(MENAFN) Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has demanded the resignation of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, sharing a satirical image before a planned no-confidence vote in the European Parliament.

The vote, set for Thursday, is aimed at questioning her management of the COVID-19 vaccine procurement process.

On Tuesday, Orban posted an image resembling a Time magazine cover, featuring a red backdrop with an image of von der Leyen walking away under the phrase “time to go.”

The parody is a reference to a 2024 Biden-themed cover of the magazine, which depicted the US president’s announcement of his withdrawal from the election race.

Orban has consistently been a vocal critic of von der Leyen, accusing her of weakening EU institutions and meddling in the internal affairs of member nations.

His clashes with Brussels have largely centered around issues related to the rule of law and sanctions policy, with Orban claiming that the EU leadership has attempted to politically isolate Hungary.

Within the European Union, von der Leyen has faced increasing backlash, especially regarding her actions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the main points of contention has been her refusal to release private messages exchanged with Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla during the vaccine procurement discussions.

This issue has sparked ongoing debate, and earlier this year, a European court ruled that her office had failed to provide an adequate explanation for withholding the messages.

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