Katya Adler: Jubilation in Budapest will be felt in Europe but leaves Moscow cold

Katya Adler: Budapest’s Joy Echoes Across Europe, Yet Fails to Warm Moscow

Budapest’s Chain Bridge, a historic symbol spanning the Danube, divides the city’s Buda and Pest districts. By day, it’s a picturesque landmark, but at night, its lights transform into a visual spectacle. Typically, tourists gather there for selfies, yet this Sunday’s scene was different. The bridge was illuminated in green, white, and red—Hungary’s national colors—after an unexpected electoral shift. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who had led the country for 16 years, was ousted by Péter Magyar’s Tisza party.

Magyar’s supporters celebrated what they called a restoration of Hungary’s sovereignty. In his victory address, he expressed triumph, declaring,

“We did it. Together we liberated Hungary. We took back our homeland! Thank you! Thank you all!”

The atmosphere was electric, with crowds chanting slogans like “Russians Go home!” as they embraced the change.

Orbán’s tenure, often described as a blend of authoritarianism and populist nationalism, faced a decisive end. His grip on state media and manipulation of the electoral system had long shaped public opinion, but the results showed a strong rejection of his policies. Voter turnout hit a record high, signaling a pivotal moment in Hungary’s political landscape.

For Russia, Orbán’s exit marks a significant setback. As an EU ally, he had delayed sanctions against Moscow and resisted EU financial support for Ukraine. Zelensky, however, welcomed the shift, noting on X,

“I look forward to constructive work together.”

His message, though measured, highlighted the newfound alignment between Hungary and Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Trump’s reaction was muted. Orbán had been a key figure in his European strategy, with the U.S. vice-president attending rallies in support. Now, without Orbán, the former president’s influence in the region wanes. Both leaders shared a vision of a strong, anti-globalist right, but the outcome suggests shifting tides.

Analysts debate whether this victory signals a peak for populist nationalism in Europe. While some see it as a turning point, others remain cautious. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party, for instance, saw lower-than-expected results in French local elections. Yet, the broader implications for European unity and its stance against Moscow and Beijing are clear.