Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban cautioned that Europe may need to reevaluate its support for Ukraine if Donald Trump is elected president of the United States.
Orban noted that Europe "will not be able to bear the burdens of the war alone," suggesting a shift in priorities under a potential Trump presidency, which he believes would favor a peace settlement over continued military aid.
Orban, a supporter of Trump’s candidacy against Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, expressed confidence in Trump’s chances, stating, "We (in Europe) need to realize that if there will be a pro-peace president in America... then Europe cannot remain pro-war."
His remarks highlight growing concerns among European leaders about the implications of the U.S. election on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and broader European security.
As leaders prepare for an upcoming European Political Community meeting in Budapest, Orban indicated that Ukraine would be a central topic of discussion.
"Europe cannot bear the burden of [the war] alone," he reiterated, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response should U.S. policies shift towards peace.
Orban’s stance aligns with Hungary's recent diplomatic posture, having garnered criticism from Brussels for his close ties to Russia and opposition to military support for Ukraine.
His foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, previously described Trump as a "chance for peace" in the region.
In July, Orban revealed that his administration was aiding Trump’s team with policies related to families and migration, and he even called Trump to offer good wishes ahead of the election.
As Europe anxiously awaits the outcome, the future of its engagement in the Ukraine crisis hangs in the balance.
