Budapest Clashes: Commemorations and Antifa Protests
The Day of Honour, commemorating the tens of thousands of German and Hungarian soldiers who tried to escape the Soviet siege of Budapest during World War II, is a controversial event in Hungary and Europe. While some believe that these soldiers deserve respect for defending Europe and Hungary against the Soviet Red Army, most historians argue that they were actually prolonging Hitler’s downfall.
The siege of Budapest, lasting from December 1944 to February 1945, was one of the longest and most destructive sieges of the war. Hitler declared Budapest as Festung Budapest, ordering his troops to defend it at all costs against the Soviet forces. Stalin, on the other hand, wanted a quick capture of the city, leading to a prolonged and brutal siege.
The commemoration of the Day of Honour varies, with some far-right organizations organizing tours to remember the soldiers’ sacrifice. However, historians like Krisztián Ungváry point out that these soldiers did not see themselves as protectors of Europe, and commemorating them as such may dishonor their memory.
In recent years, there have been secret neo-nazi concerts and Antifa demonstrations surrounding the Day of Honour. Far-right organizations have been banned from holding public demonstrations, leading to gatherings in undisclosed locations. Antifa protesters also plan to demonstrate against these events, leading to clashes between the two groups.
The Hungarian police are prepared for these events, with increased patrols and security measures in place. The Day of Honour remains a controversial and divisive issue in Hungary, highlighting the complexities of commemorating wartime events.
