European leaders have welcomed the election victory of Péter Magyar, marking the end of Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule and signaling what many describe as a new political direction for Hungary.
Strong Messages from European Leaders
Germany’s Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, congratulated the Hungarian people, calling for unity across Europe.
“Let us join forces for a strong, secure and, above all, united Europe,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke directly with Magyar, praising the outcome as a victory for democratic participation and European values.
“France welcomes this result, which reflects the Hungarian people’s commitment to the values of the European Union and Hungary’s place in Europe,” Macron stated, emphasizing cooperation on security, competitiveness, and democracy.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the result as a “historic moment for European democracy.”
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said that “Europe and European values have won,” while Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Michal called it a historic choice by Hungarian voters.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson noted that the elections mark “a new chapter” in Hungary’s history.
EU Institutions Welcome Shift
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said Hungary had made a clear European choice.
“Hungary has chosen Europe. Europe has always chosen Hungary. Together, we are stronger,” she wrote.
Meanwhile, Roberta Metsola подчеркed that Hungary belongs “at the heart of Europe.”
A Turning Point for Hungary
Magyar’s victory is widely seen as a turning point that could reshape Hungary’s relationship with the European Union, after years of tension under Orbán’s leadership.
