politics
April 4, 2026
Why US and Russia are backing Viktor Orbán in Hungary election
As voters head to polls, Washington support and alleged interference from Moscow raise questions about influence
TL;DR
- The US, with figures like JD Vance and Marco Rubio showing support, and Russia, through alleged intelligence and disinformation campaigns, are both reportedly backing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
- This unusual alignment is seen by some as an ideological shift in the Republican party under Trump, aligning on a 'white Christian civilisational ethic', while Russia's motives are perceived as strategic, benefiting from Orbán's role within the EU.
- Orbán's government has faced criticism for democratic backsliding and corruption, and his relationship with the EU is strained, particularly regarding aid to Ukraine and energy policies.
- Despite US and Russian support, polls suggest Orbán's Fidesz party is trailing the opposition Tisza party, led by Péter Magyar.
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