Cartoon on German TV station criticizing Budapest policies angers Hungarian government

BUDAPEST, Hungary – A minute-long message on a German television station aimed at children has drawn the ire of the Hungarian government for criticism of recent changes made to the Hungarian constitution and allegations that the government only wants good press about the nation.

The government was considering appeals to German or international institutions about the animated clip “A red card for Hungary,” Ferenc Kumin, head of the government’s International Communications Office, said Friday.

The clip on Kika, a public-service broadcaster, also says Hungary’s politicians sometimes fail to respect European Union laws and the country could be fined by the EU for its transgressions.

The EU, the United States and others have expressed concerns over efforts by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government to centralize power and weaken democratic checks and balances.