"Donald Trump and Viktor Orban: A Friendship Overview"

"Explore the connection between Donald Trump and Viktor Orban, examining their political friendship, key interactions, and mutual influence. This overview highlights how their alliance has impacted their respective policies and international relations, offering insights into their shared interests and collaborations."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban may not be known for championing democracy in Europe, and many Americans might not recognize him, but he does have a notable supporter in the U.S.: Donald Trump.

Trump referenced Orban, who is known for his authoritarian nationalist stance, as a character witness during his televised debate with Vice President Kamala Harris.

While Harris criticized Trump, calling him a global laughingstock, Trump countered by highlighting Orban’s endorsement. "Regarding world leaders, Viktor Orban is highly respected," Trump said.

"He’s often labeled a strongman," Trump continued. "Orban is a tough and intelligent prime minister. He suggested that the world’s current turmoil is due to the absence of Trump as president." Trump has frequently praised Orban and noted the support he receives from the Hungarian leader. Both leaders share similar hardline views on immigration.

Western nations, including the U.S., have criticized Orban’s record on freedom of expression, human rights, and LGBT issues. Few global leaders openly support Trump, and many European officials fear a second Trump term. After an assassination attempt on Trump in July, Orban was among the first to extend his well-wishes. Trump and Orban are closely aligned, with Hungary’s current EU presidency slogan, "Make Europe Great Again," echoing Trump’s MAGA slogan.

The two leaders have grown closer, meeting frequently. Their most recent encounter was at a NATO summit in July, with Orban visiting Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Orban had visited earlier in March as well. Orban’s July visit followed a trip to Kyiv, Moscow, and China, where he sought ways to end the war in Ukraine and met with President Vladimir Putin, who faces war crimes allegations. This meeting angered European leaders who accused Orban of rogue diplomacy and disregarding EU policies.

Orban maintains a close relationship with Russia, criticizes Western sanctions, and opposes Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations. Trump has claimed he could resolve the war in Ukraine swiftly if reelected.

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Source: globalnation‍