WATCH LIVE: Trump meets with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán

Trump Meets with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán

As the conflict in Ukraine nears its fourth year, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán visits the White House to meet President Donald Trump. The central issue is Orbán’s persistent reliance on Russian oil, which faces growing opposition from both the European Union and the Trump administration.

Orbán's Political Shift and Relationship with Russia

Once a vocal critic of Russia's influence during the Cold War, Orbán has significantly altered his stance over the past decade. He is now regarded as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s staunchest ally within the European Union. Despite Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, Orbán continues to foster warm ties with Moscow.

Alliance with Trump and the MAGA Movement

Orbán also enjoys support from President Trump and the MAGA movement, who view Hungary as a model of conservative nationalism. This admiration persists despite concerns over the weakening of Hungary’s democratic institutions.

Pressure to Reduce Dependence on Russian Energy

With the conflict extending nearly four years, Brussels and Washington are intensifying efforts to persuade Orbán to cut Hungary’s dependence on Russian oil. This resource is widely seen as vital to financing Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine.

"Orbán’s priority will be convincing the U.S. administration to turn a blind eye to Hungary’s dogged commitment to buying Russian oil, a potential test of how deep the affinity goes between the two friendly leaders."
"Widely considered Russian President Vladimir Putin’s most reliable advocate in the European Union, Orbán has maintained warm relations with the Kremlin despite its war against Ukraine."

Trump and Orbán are scheduled to meet at 11:45 a.m., marking a significant moment in assessing the U.S.-Hungary relationship amid geopolitical tensions.

Summary: Orbán’s visit to Trump highlights tensions between maintaining energy ties with Russia and political pressures from the U.S. and EU as the Ukraine conflict endures.

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Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) — 2025-11-07

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