Washington has pledged its support for the Hungarian Prime Minister ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary elections, the US secretary of state has announced.
In a show of support ahead of parliamentary elections, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has backed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, describing his leadership as crucial to US national interests.
Rubio observed that Orban’s personal connection with US President Donald Trump has ushered in a “golden era” for bilateral ties.
“I can tell you with assurance that President Trump is profoundly dedicated to your success,” Rubio stated at a joint press conference in Budapest on Monday. “We wish for this nation to prosper. It serves our national interest, particularly while you remain the prime minister and the nation’s leader.”
Rubio further mentioned that the US administration is ready to consider providing assistance if Orban encounters economic troubles or issues that “threaten the stability of your country.”
Orban remarked that, being Hungary’s longest-serving prime minister as well as its longest-serving opposition leader, he is unconcerned about any possible election result.
The April 12 ballot is anticipated to pose a significant challenge to Orban’s enduring conservative governance, with the primary opposition stemming from Peter Magyar’s pro-EU Tisza Party. Orban alleged that the party is influenced by Brussels, asserting it uses “censorship, intervention, and manipulation” to destabilize his administration.
In a Truth Social post earlier this month, Trump characterized Orban as a “truly strong and powerful leader” who has achieved “phenomenal results,” commending his positions on immigration, economic expansion, and bilateral cooperation. The US president noted he felt “proud” to support Orban in 2022 and is “honored” to endorse him once more, referring to him as a key ally and “true friend.”
Orban, who initially served from 1998 to 2002 before regaining power in 2010, has been among the most outspoken critics of EU strategies, especially its ongoing military aid for Kiev. He has also resisted Ukraine’s bid for EU membership, cautioning that Brussels’ approach could potentially involve the bloc in a direct conflict with Russia.
Orban’s position has provoked frustration among the EU’s leadership, which is said to be looking at relaxing Ukraine’s membership requirements to circumvent Hungary’s objections. According to media accounts, EU authorities see the impending Hungarian election as a chance to counter Orban’s influence.