Rogán, whose role in the Hungarian government is described by the US Department as key, according to Washington, during his government activity, set up “the Hungarian system of allocating public contracts and resources so that minions loyal to him and the Fidesz political party received them.” Orbán has been at its head for many years.
The US Department noted that corruption in the public sector in Hungary has been worsening for more than ten years, which also led to the fact that this Central European country in 2023 finished in the last place of all European Union states in the Transparency International (TI) ranking.
“Corruption undermines the country’s government institutions and limits its economic development by bringing short-term profit to a select few while depriving future generations of long-term benefits,” said Bradley T. Smith, US Assistant Secretary of the Treasury.
The head of the office also supervises the secret services
Rogán has been close to Orbán for decades, is in charge of his presentation in the media and participated in the creation of his election campaigns. He also currently supervises the Hungarian secret services.
Poland did not invite the Hungarian ambassador to the start of its EU presidency
Europe
The actions of the Ministry of Finance take place two weeks before the inauguration of US President Donald Trump. Orbán’s government, which has significantly hostile relations with the Biden administration, expects that the change of power in Washington will improve relations between the two countries. It is well known that Viktor Orbán is one of the biggest European supporters of Trump.
Orbán’s office said that it will take legal action against the US administration’s decision after Trump’s inauguration. Regarding the introduction of sanctions, she said that it was “the last little revenge of the unsuccessful outgoing American ambassador” David Pressman.
Poland did not invite the Hungarian ambassador to the start of its EU presidency
Europe
