Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban faced a significant defeat, causing ripples globally as Donald Trump loses a key European ally. Hungarians signaled a desire to end Orban’s 16-year leadership, opting instead for Tisza party leader Peter Magyar by a large margin. Orban’s governance was marked by a shift away from the European Union toward alliances with Trump and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
Acknowledging the impending defeat, Orban conceded, stating, “The election results are not final, but the situation is clear and understandable. The outcome is painful but conclusive. We were not granted the responsibility and opportunity to govern. I have congratulated the victor.”
The defeat appeared to unsettle Moscow, with Kirill Dmitriev suggesting that Hungary’s loss would hasten the European Union’s downfall. Meanwhile, the Trump administration, represented by Vice President JD Vance, faced embarrassment as they supported Orban’s campaign without success.
Global leaders welcomed Magyar’s victory as a chance to reset Hungary’s relations with Europe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a previous target of Orban’s criticism, congratulated Magyar on Twitter and expressed a desire for enhanced cooperation between Ukraine and Hungary.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer commended Magyar on his historic win, emphasizing the significance for European democracy. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, a rival of Orban, praised Hungary’s choice to align with Europe, strengthening the Union.
Orban, known for his illiberal leadership and anti-immigration policies, enjoyed support from MAGA conservatives in the US. Despite his anti-immigration stance, Orban allowed Indian workers into the country for transportation roles. His efforts to boost the population through family-oriented policies failed to meet the replacement level of 2.1 live births per woman.
As of Monday morning, Magyar is poised to secure a supermajority, with a record 77.8% voter turnout in the Hungarian elections.