JD Vance Defends Orbán Backing Amid Hungarian Political Upheaval
US Vice-President JD Vance has staunchly defended his pre-election campaign visit in support of Viktor Orbán, just days before the Hungarian Prime Minister's significant defeat. Vance, speaking to Fox News, described Orbán as a "great guy" who performed a "very good job", notably for his willingness to challenge "the bureaucracy in Brussels".
New Government's Priorities
Despite his regret over Orbán's loss, Vance expressed confidence in working with the new Hungarian government. Péter Magyar, leader of the victorious Tisza party, had previously cautioned against foreign interference in Hungarian elections. However, he has since affirmed the US as a "strong and important" NATO partner.
Magyar, who is set to become Prime Minister, has called for President Tamás Sulyok to convene the new parliament swiftly and then resign. Sulyok's office has stated he will not resign, but discussions are expected regarding the parliamentary schedule and the nomination of a new prime minister.
Reforms and EU Relations
The incoming leader has announced plans to appear on public radio and TV, having previously refused an invitation post-election due to concerns over biased coverage. Magyar has pledged to suspend all news on state broadcasters until impartiality is guaranteed, proposing a board to ensure independence, akin to the BBC model.
With a projected "super majority" of 137 seats, Magyar's government intends to establish an Anti-Corruption Office and a National Asset Recovery and Protection Office, as well as initiating the process to join the EU's European Public Prosecutor's Office. These measures aim to combat systemic corruption, which Magyar asserts has seen "billions going missing in state contracts".
A key priority for Magyar will be unlocking billions of euros in EU funding and loans, estimated at €17bn (£14.8bn), that were frozen due to concerns over rule of law and democratic backsliding under Orbán. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has emphasised the need for "swift work to... restore the rule of law [and] realign with our shared European values."
Furthermore, EU leaders are pressuring Hungary to reverse Orbán's veto on €90bn in aid to Ukraine. Magyar has indicated this veto is not relevant, as Hungary opted out of the initial loan. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stressed the importance of releasing aid to Kyiv "very quickly" and Berlin is expected to be one of Magyar's first foreign destinations.
