By Shahnoor Saqib | SCN News
European leaders have welcomed the end of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule, calling it a turning point for unity and democratic values across the European Union.
Orbán, known for his close ties with Russia’s Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump, conceded defeat after opposition leader Peter Magyar secured a sweeping victory. Magyar’s Tisza Party is expected to dominate parliament, marking a significant political shift in Hungary.
Leaders across Europe quickly praised the result. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk called it a “glorious victory,” while Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said, “Today Europe wins and European values win.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described it as a historic moment for European democracy.
Magyar has pledged to rebuild Hungary’s relationship with the European Union and restore democratic institutions. He also emphasized support for Ukraine, calling it the “victim” in the ongoing war.
However, analysts warn that removing the influence of Orbán’s long-standing political system will take time, as many state institutions remain under the control of his loyalists.
While the Kremlin said it respects Hungary’s decision, it signaled strained relations, calling Hungary an “unfriendly country.”
Magyar’s victory is widely seen as a major political shift in Europe, though questions remain about how quickly reforms can be implemented and how Hungary’s foreign policy direction will evolve.