Two banners were carried at the front of the procession: “Peace March” and “We will not become a Ukrainian colony.” Hungarian flags and symbols of Fidesz, Prime Minister Orban's party, dominate the crowd. The stalls around the assembly sell red, white and green bows, bracelets and flags.
“Peace March” in Budapest. Viktor Orban spoke
The march crossed the Margaret Bridge from Buda, the western part of the capital, to Pest, where Prime Minister Orban addressed his supporters in Kossuth Square.
How many people took part in the Peace March in Budapest?
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What slogans appeared during the Peace March?
Sunday's march, like a number of other events organized by the Hungarian authorities in recent months, is intended to express opposition to the European Union's approach to the war in Ukraine. Orban is basing his campaign on protesting against the support provided to Kiev by the EU, which – according to Budapest – is prolonging the war and torpedoing peace efforts undertaken, among others. by US President Donald Trump.
“Peace March” in Budapest. March 15, 2026TIBOR ILLYES / PAP
The Hungarian government also accuses Ukraine of trying to influence the country's internal politics and supporting the allegedly pro-Ukrainian opposition. Its leader, Tisza chairman Peter Magyar, is organizing his own march later on Sunday to mark Hungary's national day.
“Peace March” in Budapest. Hungarians are celebrating an important event
In recent days, both Orban and Magyar have encouraged their supporters to participate in Sunday's events, which some commentators see as the main test of both camps before the April elections.
“Peace March” in Budapest. March 15, 2026Robert Hegedus / PAP
Hungarian National Day commemorates one of the most important moments in Hungarian history: the outbreak of the 1848 revolution. The celebration commemorates the fight for independence, civil rights and constitutional rule during the wave of European uprisings known as the Spring of Nations. This day has been an official national holiday in Hungary since 1990.
