What was the EU's reaction to Prime Minister Orban's defeat?

The President of the European Commission and the President of the European Council stated that Hungary has 'chosen Europe' and expressed their expectation for cooperation with the new government.

What was Hungary's relationship with the EU under the Orban government?

The Orban government often clashed with the EU on issues such as Russian sanctions and support for Ukraine, adopting an isolationist policy.

How will the relationship between the EU and Hungary change with the new government?

The EU anticipates close cooperation with the new government, expecting improved relations and collaboration on EU policies, particularly support for Ukraine.

Prime Minister Orban concedes defeat: Von der Leyen says Hungary has chosen Europe

Published Apr 13, 2026 8:54 AM ・ Updated Jun 28, 2026 5:19 AM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: CNA (Central News Agency)

Following Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's concession in the parliamentary election after 16 years in power, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa welcomed the results, stating that Hungary has "chosen Europe." They congratulated the winner, Peter Magyar, and expressed anticipation for close cooperation with the new government, expecting improved relations between the EU and Hungary, particularly concerning Russia sanctions and Ukraine aid.

Vote counting is still underway in the Hungarian parliamentary election, but Viktor Orban, the nationalist Prime Minister who has governed for 16 years, has already conceded defeat and congratulated his opponent.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen first posted on social media platform X in the evening, stating "Tonight, the heart of Europe beats stronger in Hungary," and about half an hour later, posted again: "Hungary has chosen Europe, and Europe has always chosen Hungary. A country has reclaimed its European path, and the EU becomes stronger."

European Council President Antonio Costa also congratulated Peter Magyar on social media platform X, stating that the record voter turnout demonstrated the democratic spirit of the Hungarian people. The Hungarian people have spoken, and their will is very clear. He looks forward to close cooperation with Magyar to build a stronger and more prosperous Europe.

After Orban's defeat, changes in the relationship between the new Hungarian government and the EU are also drawing external attention, particularly regarding issues such as sanctions against Russia and aid to Ukraine.

EU member state leaders reached an agreement last December to provide Ukraine with a 90 billion euro loan between 2026 and 2027 to fill an impending financial gap. However, Hungary, which had initially pledged not to join the guarantee mechanism but not to obstruct the loan, later reversed its stance to opposition, stalling the policy.

During the EU leaders' summit in mid-March this year, Orban maintained his opposition to the loan, drawing criticism from several EU leaders. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola even stated that since Orban made a commitment, he must follow through, which reflects the spirit of the European Council and the integrity of cooperation between institutions.

Furthermore, the EU's 20th round of sanctions against Russia is still under negotiation due to Hungary's dissenting opinion. (Edited by Tang Sheng-yang) 1150413

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Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
Category: Event

Prime Minister Orban concedes defeat: Von der Leyen says Hungary has chosen Europe

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