Strong Ties and Open Support
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Budapest to deliver a clear message of support from former President Donald Trump to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of Hungary’s April elections. Speaking alongside Orbán after the Munich Security Conference, Rubio praised the personal relationship Orbán has cultivated with Trump, calling it a cornerstone of the strong U.S.–Hungarian bond.
Rubio highlighted the benefits of that relationship, including Hungary’s one-year exemption from U.S. sanctions on Russian oil imports last November. “It was because of that personal relationship. It’s because we want you to continue. After all, we want this economy to prosper, we want this country to do well. It’s in our national interest,” he said. The visit also included the signing of an energy cooperation agreement, with officials describing the moment as a “golden age” for bilateral ties.
Election Tensions and Accusations
Orbán faces a tough contest as polls show the opposition Tisza Party leading his ruling Fidesz party, which has governed Hungary since 2010. At the press conference, Orbán accused neighboring Ukraine of meddling in the election to boost the opposition’s chances, claiming Kyiv wants Hungary to ease its veto on Ukraine’s EU accession.
Despite the tension, Orbán firmly rejected the idea that he would refuse to hand over power if defeated. “The next government will be created after the election based on the intention of the Hungarian people,” he said, noting his experience as both the longest-serving prime minister and opposition leader in Europe.
A Potential Trump Visit
Orbán reiterated that Trump has an open invitation to visit Hungary before the elections, though no date has been confirmed. When asked about the likelihood of the visit, he hinted that uncertainty leaves the possibility open. Rubio did not meet with representatives from the Tisza Party, but the opposition welcomed his presence, emphasizing that strong U.S.–Hungarian relations are a priority regardless of the election outcome.
