The streets of Budapest are currently covered with billboards depicting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, not Orbán's main opponent, Peter Magyar. This message can be summed up in two basic slogans: “Vote for Orban or wait for war” and “Vote for Orban or all your money will go to Ukraine.”
Tisza Magyar's opposition party is leading in the polls, and in the face of possible defeat, the Hungarian government is engaging in blatant electoral manipulation. However, world players want him to remain in power – and for similar reasons.
There are many examples of manipulation by the Hungarian government led by Orbán. The authorities in Budapest, for example, introduced the 14th payment of wages to voters despite economic stagnation and budget deficit. They did this only to announce the next day that both the 13th and 14th salaries would be abolished in the future.
Orban is trying to blame the EU and Kyiv for Hungary's problems. For example, he claims that the EU wants to transfer EUR 800 billion (PLN 3 trillion, 367 billion at the current exchange rate) to Ukraine. This is untrue – this amount appeared in the context of the overall expenditure needed for the economic reconstruction of Ukraine after the war.
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The Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is spreading fear in society, declaring that Orbán's possible defeat in the next elections will trigger a war throughout Europe. This campaign received direct support from Washington when President Trump sent Orbán a letter wishing him success and praising the Hungarian leader. Orban immediately shared this statement on social media.
A double “Trojan horse” in Europe
The Trump administration and the Kremlin have a common interest in keeping Orban in power in Budapest.
Both Washington and Moscow see the Hungarian leader as an indispensable tool in preventing the European Union from reaching a strategic consensus on security issues.
While Russia views the EU consensus on treating Moscow as a major threat, the Trump White House benefits from having a powerhouse in Europe that continually undermines Brussels.
The Trump administration granted Hungary special exemptions to purchase Russian energy resources. On the one hand, the Americans provided the Kremlin with financial resources, and on the other hand, they helped stabilize Orban's regime during the election period. This American interference extends beyond Hungary, as the White House is involved in electoral activities in Germany, Romania and Bulgaria as part of a broader strategy to undermine European political consolidation.
For the Kremlin, Orban is a voice in the EU who questions the bloc's security transformation. For Trump, the Hungarian leader is an opportunity to exploit divisions in Europe for economic and geopolitical benefits, reminiscent of America's position during the world wars.
Viktor Orban and Vladimir PutinContributor/Getty Images/Getty Images
Ironically, while Orban criticizes the alleged “interference of Brussels and Kiev”, he actively welcomes and encourages intervention by Moscow and Washington, occupying a position that analysts describe as a “frozen asset” of Putin and Trump – or a Trojan horse operating in the heart of Europe.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
