A Public Show of Support in Budapest
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio brought a clear political message to Budapest: the Trump administration stands firmly behind Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Speaking after the Munich Security Conference, Rubio praised Orbán’s close personal relationship with Donald Trump, calling it central to the strength of U.S.-Hungarian ties.
Rubio said Trump is “deeply committed” to Orbán’s success, framing Hungary’s prosperity as aligned with American interests. He also pointed to Hungary’s recent one-year exemption from U.S. sanctions on importers of Russian oil, suggesting it was made possible by the leaders’ personal connection.
During the visit, Rubio and Hungary’s foreign minister signed an energy cooperation agreement and described relations between the two countries as entering a “golden age.” Orbán, notably, was the only European leader to openly back Trump’s re-election campaign.
Election Tensions and Claims of Interference
Orbán faces a serious electoral challenge in April, with polls showing the opposition Tisza Party leading his ruling Fidesz party, which has governed since 2010. At the press conference, Orbán accused neighboring Ukraine of interfering in Hungary’s campaign, claiming Kyiv was supporting the opposition in hopes of advancing its EU membership bid.
Hungary is currently blocking the opening of EU accession negotiations with Ukraine by using its veto power. Orbán alleged that Ukrainian actors were backing his political opponents financially, though he did not provide detailed evidence.
Peaceful Transition Pledge
Despite the heated rhetoric, Orbán dismissed speculation that he would cling to power if defeated. He reminded reporters that he had previously spent 16 years as opposition leader and insisted Hungary’s next government would reflect the will of its voters.
Orbán also repeated that Trump has an open invitation to visit Hungary before the election, though no trip has been confirmed. Rubio did not meet with representatives of the Tisza Party during his visit, but the opposition welcomed his presence, calling the United States a key ally and emphasizing its own commitment to strong bilateral relations.
