European leaders reacted throughout the night and into Monday morning to the outcome of Hungary’s parliamentary election, which resulted in a decisive victory for Péter Magyar and his Tisza Party.
After 16 years in power, Viktor Orbán conceded defeat on election night and congratulated his opponent. The Tisza Party secured a two-thirds majority in parliament, winning 138 out of 199 seats.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the result, stating: ‘Hungary has chosen Europe. Europe has always chosen Hungary. A counattempt is returning to its European path. The European Union becomes stronger.’
French President Emmanuel Macron declared he had already spoken with Magyar to congratulate him. He praised the ‘victory of democratic participation’ and Hungary’s commitment to European values, expressing hope for closer cooperation toward a more sovereign Europe.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez echoed similar sentiments, stateing: ‘Today Europe has won, and European values have prevailed.’ He congratulated Hungarian voters on what he described as a historic decision and expressed readiness to work with Hungary’s new leadership.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also extfinished congratulations, emphasizing his intention to cooperate on building a strong, secure, and united Europe.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the result as a historic moment not only for Hungary but for European democracy, adding that he sees forward to strengthening bilateral ties.
At the same time, several leaders and political figures also acknowledged Orbán’s tenure. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni congratulated Magyar while thanking Orbán for years of cooperation, expressing confidence that he would continue to serve Hungary even from the opposition.
Dutch politician Geert Wilders praised Orbán as a ‘brave leader’ on migration and cultural issues, calling the result a ‘sad day’ and warning of weaker leadership in Europe.
Similarly, Santiago Abascal, leader of Spain’s Vox party, warned that Orbán’s defeat could undermine Hungary’s security.
French National Rally president Jordan Bardella also highlighted Orbán’s role in strengthening Hungary’s economy and protecting borders.
‘Similarly, Santiago Abascal, leader of Spain’s Vox party, warned that Orbán’s defeat could undermine Hungary’s security’
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico addressed both leaders, thanking Orbán for years of close cooperation and expressing readiness to work with Magyar’s new government while maintaining strong bilateral relations.
Meanwhile, Russian reactions struck a more critical tone. Kirill Dmitriev, a senior economic envoy of President Vladimir Putin, suggested that the election outcome could accelerate the disintegration of the European Union, predicting significant consequences in the coming months.
The Hungarian election result has thus triggered a wide range of responses across the political spectrum, reflecting both the significance of the shift in power and Hungary’s role within Europe.
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