Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Péter Szijjártó, is thrilled about Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Having built a strong connection with Trump during his first term, Szijjártó sees their bond growing even stronger now. In fact, he proudly describes Hungary as “kind of Trump before Trump,” suggesting that the two countries share similar values and goals.
Hungary’s leader, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has been a controversial but powerful figure in Europe. After first serving as Prime Minister from 1998 to 2002, he made a dramatic comeback in 2010 and has held onto power ever since. Orbán’s leadership style and policies — like his tough stance on immigration and his emphasis on conservative Christian values — have drawn both praise and criticism. Under his leadership, Hungary has reshaped its political landscape, often sparking tension with the European Union.
In a recent interview with Newsweek at the United Nations, Szijjártó didn’t hold back. He criticized European leaders for failing to handle the war in Ukraine, saying their actions only made things worse. He believes the only real solution lies in direct talks between the U.S. and Russia — and he’s excited to see Trump taking steps in that direction. Szijjártó praised Trump for fostering dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin and hopes their discussions will lead to peace.
Szijjártó also applauded Trump’s embrace of Christian values and conservative policies. Hungary has faced backlash from the EU for laws banning LGBTQ organizations from schools and reinforcing traditional family roles. But Szijjártó sees Trump’s support for similar ideas as a sign that the Western world is shifting toward what he calls “common sense.”
When asked about the balance between church and state, Szijjártó dismissed concerns, saying Hungary’s collaboration with the church strengthens the nation. He argued that while the church doesn’t interfere in government affairs, their partnership helps run schools, health institutions, and social programs effectively.
Szijjártó also weighed in on migration, expressing support for religious freedom but stressing that immigrants must respect the culture and laws of their new home countries. He criticized what he called “insane” situations in Europe where Christian symbols have been removed to avoid offending migrants.
Reflecting on Hungary’s recent presidency of the Council of the European Union, Szijjártó highlighted efforts to expand the EU by bringing in Western Balkan countries like Montenegro and Albania. He also pushed for policies to boost Europe’s competitiveness, which he believes has been declining.
As for Trump’s early days back in office, Szijjártó gave him an enthusiastic A-plus. He particularly praised Trump for cutting funding to USAID, an organization he accused of interfering in other countries’ domestic affairs. Szijjártó believes this move will ease pressure on patriotic governments worldwide.
Looking ahead, Szijjártó hopes for even closer U.S.-Hungary collaboration. He pointed to recent American investments in Hungary and agreements on space research and tax policy as signs of a growing partnership. With Trump back in charge, Hungary sees an opportunity to strengthen its global position and align itself even more closely with the U.S.
In Szijjártó’s eyes, the future looks bright — and he’s ready for Hungary to play a leading role in shaping the new world order alongside Trump.
