Deutsch told public radio that Hungary had fulfilled all of its 17 commitments, yet the European Commission was sticking to the same punishment recommendations against Hungary it had made to the European Council at the start of negotiations. The EC’s problem, he said, was not with Hungary’s 17 commitments or the rule of law, but Hungary’s objection to Brussels forcing its stance on migration, sanctions, and the child protection law.
Commenting on Belgian liberal MEP Guy Verhofstadt’s suggestion that Hungary’s funding should be withdrawn each time it opposes EU policy, Deutsch accused Verhofstadt of being a “Hungary-hater”. Deutsch likened what was happening within the European Union to domestic violence within the family, “and domestic violence is one of the most serious crimes”. The ruling party politician said that 85-90% of Hungarians agreed that Hungary should reject illegal migration, protect its borders, and maintain the child protection law. They also reject “catastrophic” sanctions, he added.