US Vice President JD Vance traveled to Hungary Monday evening to convey President Donald Trump's endorsement to his ally, nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, before closely fought parliamentary elections.
Vance will meet Orbán on Tuesday morning and then deliver a speech at the "Hungarian-American Friendship Day" event at the MTK Sports Park.
"We will discuss various topics concerning the relationship between the US and Hungary," Vance informed the media while leaving Andrews Air Force Base near Washington. "Clearly, I believe Europe, Ukraine, and other issues will be very significant."
During his second term, Trump has consistently expressed backing for the Hungarian Prime Minister. "I am backing his upcoming election; in fact, I completely support him," stated the US President.
Viktor Orbán's campaign mainly centers on foreign policy matters, where he plays a significant part in fostering positive relations with US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Nevertheless, surveys conducted by independent organizations forecast a decisive win for the Tisza party, which is headed by pro-European conservative Péter Magyar.
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In just two years, Magyar has established an opposition movement strong enough to contest the dominance of the current Hungarian leader, who has turned his nation into a prime example of illiberal democracy.
Pro-government entities, in turn, forecast success for Orbán's Fidesz-KDNP alliance.
Since regaining power, Trump and his administration have deviated from the historical restraint exhibited by previous US governments concerning foreign elections. Rather, it currently expresses clear and strong backing for leaders it considers aligned with its beliefs and diplomatic objectives.
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In mid-February, Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, visited Budapest to wish success to his Hungarian ally.
"I can assure you that President Trump is thoroughly dedicated to your success, as your success is our success," Rubio stated at a joint press conference with Orban following their meeting.
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Orban closely aligns with the Trump administration regarding anti-migrant measures, which became prominent in Hungary during the refugee crisis a decade ago. He has gone to Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida numerous times.