Budapest – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a strong endorsement of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s leadership during a visit to Budapest on , signaling continued American support for the nationalist leader as he faces a challenging re-election bid in April.
Rubio’s visit and public statements represent a notable show of support for Orbán, whose government has faced criticism from within the European Union over concerns regarding democratic backsliding, rule of law, and media freedom. The Secretary of State’s overt backing comes as Orbán’s Fidesz party trails in opinion polls, raising the possibility of an end to his sixteen years in power.
Speaking alongside Orbán at a joint press conference, Rubio emphasized the “very, very close personal relationship and working relationship” between the Hungarian Prime Minister and U.S. President Donald Trump. He stated that this connection has been “beneficial to our two countries,” and credited it with fostering a “golden era” in bilateral ties. “I can say to you with confidence that President Trump is deeply committed to your success because your success is our success,” Rubio said, according to reports.
The Secretary of State went further, suggesting that the United States would be prepared to offer assistance to Hungary should it encounter financial difficulties. “If you face financial struggles, if you face things that are impediments to growth, if you face things that threaten the stability of your country, I know that President Trump would be very interested because of your relationship with him and because of the importance of this country to us,” Rubio stated. This pledge of potential support is particularly noteworthy given the current global economic climate and Hungary’s reliance on European Union funding.
The timing of Rubio’s visit is significant. Hungary is scheduled to hold parliamentary elections on April 12th. The opposition, a broad coalition of parties, has been gaining momentum, presenting the most serious challenge to Orbán’s dominance since he first came to power in 2010. The endorsement from a high-ranking U.S. Official is likely intended to bolster Orbán’s position and reassure his supporters.
Beyond the domestic political implications, Rubio’s visit underscores the strategic importance the United States places on its relationship with Hungary. According to Rubio, the relationship is “vital for US national interests.” This assessment likely stems from Hungary’s position within Central Europe, its stance on issues such as migration, and its role in regional security, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
During the visit, Rubio and Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó signed a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, a deal heralded by President Trump. This agreement signifies a deepening of cooperation between the two countries in the energy sector and represents a strategic investment in Hungary’s infrastructure. The agreement was signed after talks between Rubio and Orbán.
Orbán, for his part, used the opportunity to reiterate Hungary’s support for U.S. Peace efforts in Ukraine and indicated his willingness to host a potential peace summit. He also acknowledged the possibility of electoral defeat, stating, “Sometimes I lose, sometimes I win… So don’t be afraid what will be if we are not winning because it’s regularly happened here.” This comment suggests a degree of pragmatism and a recognition of the uncertainties surrounding the upcoming election.
The U.S. Secretary of State’s trip to Budapest is the final leg of a broader tour of the region. The visit reflects a broader U.S. Strategy of engaging with key allies in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly those who share a conservative outlook and a willingness to challenge the prevailing norms within the European Union. The visit also highlights the continued close ties between the Trump administration and leaders like Orbán, who have often been at odds with traditional European partners.
The implications of Rubio’s endorsement extend beyond Hungary’s domestic politics. It is likely to be viewed with concern by some within the EU, who have long criticized Orbán’s policies and questioned his commitment to democratic values. The move could also further strain relations between the United States and some of its European allies, who may see it as an unwelcome interference in Hungary’s internal affairs. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in Europe and the challenges facing the United States as it seeks to balance its interests in the region.
