As much of Europe expresses concern over Donald Trump’s return, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban is optimistic. Shortly after Trump declared victory, Orban hailed it as a “much-needed victory for the world.” Orban hopes his strong ties with Trump will elevate his position within a divided Europe, especially as he faces domestic challenges.
Orban recently hosted a summit in Budapest with European leaders, many worried about Trump’s impact on Ukraine, NATO, and global trade. Orban, who has faced growing isolation in the EU due to his pro-Russia stance and opposition to military aid for Ukraine, has praised Trump as a “man of peace” who could swiftly end the war in Ukraine. The two leaders spoke by phone, with Orban posting on social media about their “big plans for the future.”
Trump’s victory could help Orban gain influence within the EU, positioning himself as a mediator between Washington and Europe. This aligns with Orban’s recent “peace mission,” which angered EU leaders when he visited Moscow and Kyiv without informing them, and later met Trump in Mar-a-Lago. Orban suggested that Trump would act as a peace broker once in office.
Orban is expected to use his relationship with Trump to gain more leverage within the EU, particularly in trade discussions, especially with Trump threatening tariffs on imports. Orban has expressed excitement over Trump’s return, even saying Europe would rethink its strategy on Ukraine under his leadership.
However, Orban faces challenges at home, including strong opposition and an economic downturn. Trump’s return could ease political pressure from Washington, especially regarding Orban’s record on media freedom and LGBTQ rights. U.S. relations soured under President Biden, but with Trump’s return, Orban may see an improvement in U.S.-Hungarian ties. Still, there are potential downsides, including Trump’s proposed trade tariffs, which could harm Hungary’s vital automotive sector.
Despite this, Orban remains hopeful that a “golden age” of U.S.-Hungarian relations is on the horizon, though analysts warn that Trump’s trade policies could present significant challenges for European industries.
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