European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Hungary’s recent election outcome as a significant win for fundamental freedoms. She drew parallels between the removal of nationalist Viktor Orbán and Hungary’s historical events such as the 1956 anti-Soviet uprising and its 1989 transition from communism.
The election results in Hungary caused a political upheaval, with the center-right opposition, led by Péter Magyar, securing a landslide victory. The news reverberated globally, from Washington to Kyiv, transforming Budapest into a celebratory hub.
Speaking in Brussels on Monday, von der Leyen commended the Hungarian people for their resilience, likening their recent actions to the courage displayed in 1956 and 1989. Orbán, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had been known for his adversarial stance within the European Union and NATO, particularly hindering support efforts for Ukraine.
Following the election, Magyar, who was once aligned with Orbán’s party, expressed Hungary’s shift towards a pro-European trajectory. He emphasized the country’s firm position within the European Union, reaffirmed by the recent election outcome.
Despite the victory, Magyar clarified that his government would not advocate for Ukraine’s immediate accession to the European Union. He expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with Putin to address ongoing conflicts and strive for peace.
Orbán, a prominent figure in Hungarian politics for 16 years, faced criticism for his authoritarian tendencies, including targeting marginalized groups and consolidating power. Magyar’s coalition’s significant victory provides an opportunity to introduce constitutional reforms, limiting a prime minister to two terms in office.
International leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, congratulated Magyar on his success, signaling a shift from the previous administration’s policies. The triumph was commended as a win for democracy by global figures, highlighting the significance of Hungary’s political evolution.
While the recent election outcome was celebrated by liberal and moderate factions globally, it contrasted with the previous support Orbán received from the U.S. administration. The Trump administration’s endorsement of Orbán was noted, with officials expressing readiness to collaborate with the new leadership in Hungary.
The Kremlin responded to the election results by expressing respect for Hungary’s decision and emphasizing the intention to maintain pragmatic relations with the country’s new political leadership.
