Magyar links French riots to migration, says ‘shocking scenes’ justify hard line

Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar has linked the riots in France to immigration, asserting that the "shocking scenes" validate his government's strict migration policies. On Saturday, anti-austerity protests turned violent in several French cities, including Paris, Lyon and Marseille, with reports of looting and several buildings being set on fire.

Magyar emphasized on social media that the destruction and violence had made it clear why Hungary adopts the strictest stance on migration. He vowed that Hungary would not relax its efforts to protect its borders or alter its immigration policies.

Magyar criticized the European Union, claiming that the overwhelming majority of European countries want a tougher approach to migration and have finally acknowledged the issue. He expressed concern about the future of Europe, stating that the continent is in serious trouble and it is their responsibility to preserve it for future generations. At a European summit, a group of countries, including Denmark, Italy and Hungary, pushed for stronger language on migration in the summit conclusions.

The French President, Emmanuel Macron, urged against "the stigmatization" of immigrants, while the Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, praised the positive contributions of immigrants. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented on the situation without explicitly mentioning France, stressing that Poland would not repeat or pay for the mistakes of others.

He also affirmed that Warsaw would maintain its strict asylum policy, focusing on security and border control. Magyar's statements, however, faced criticism in Hungary, with left-wing activist and Budapest councillor András Jámbor accusing the prime minister of exploiting the French riots for political gain.